A 4.7 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles the Los Angeles Area

Southern California Residents Shaken Awake by Pre-Dawn Quake

No Major Damage or Injuries Reported

A 4.7 magnitude earthquake struck the Los Angeles area just before dawn on Thursday, shaking residents awake and sending them scrambling for cover. The quake, which hit at 4:44 a.m. local time, was centered about 11 miles northeast of the city of Ridgecrest, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The quake was felt across a wide area of Southern California, from San Diego to Santa Barbara. It was the largest earthquake to hit the region since a 5.4 magnitude temblor in July 2019.

There were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries. However, the quake did cause some minor damage to buildings and infrastructure. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that it responded to several calls for service related to the earthquake, including reports of cracked walls, broken windows, and downed power lines.

The USGS has issued a yellow alert for the area, indicating that there is a moderate risk of aftershocks. Residents are advised to be prepared for aftershocks and to take precautions to protect themselves in the event of another quake.

Earthquakes are a common occurrence in Southern California. The region is located on the San Andreas Fault, one of the most active seismic faults in the world. The San Andreas Fault is responsible for some of the largest earthquakes in California history, including the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake.

While earthquakes can be a frightening experience, it is important to remember that they are a natural phenomenon. By taking precautions and being prepared, you can help to minimize the risk of injury or damage in the event of an earthquake.