The Temblor
On Monday morning, a moderate 4.1 magnitude earthquake rattled the Los Angeles area, centered near San Gabriel Valley, about 13 miles north of downtown LA. The quake struck at 8:39 am local time, similarly as conclusive arrangements were in progress for the famous New Year’s Day Rose March in nearby Pasadena. The shaking was felt across a wide swath of Southern California as the seismic waves travelled outward from the epicenter. Many bystanders along the Rose Parade route and people tuning in to watch the parade on TV experienced the startling tremors.
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Shaking Felt Across the LA Area
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the underground tremor originated about 12 miles below the surface. The quake was felt over an area spanning about 40 miles, with light to moderate shaking reported. Many Los Angeles residents felt a quick jolt and rolling motion that caused minor alarm and rattling of items inside homes and buildings. Though the quake caught the attention of parade-goers and television audiences, it did not cause any significant damage or disruption to New Year’s festivities.
Check For Damage
Nonetheless, police departments in cities near the epicentre encouraged residents to check for any damage or impacts. The Los Angeles County Fire Department said their agency went into earthquake emergency mode, sending vehicles out to patrol neighbourhoods and critical infrastructure to evaluate conditions. No injuries, fires or gas leaks were reported due to the quake. Many Southern Californians are accustomed to more minor earthquakes and took this latest rumbling in stride, with more curiosity than panic.
Risk Reminder
Seismologists say Monday’s quake is a reminder that all of California lies within active earthquake zones that can unleash tremors, including moderate ones, at any time. Though this quake caused minimal problems, stronger earthquakes closer to urban centers pose a severe public safety risk. Officials urge all residents and households to take steps to secure furnishings, follow evacuation guidelines and have emergency supplies handy. With earthquake awareness and preparedness, risks can be mitigated when the ground starts shaking.
