Magnitude 5.2 Earthquake Shakes Southern California
Los Angeles, CA – A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck near Bakersfield, California, on the evening of August 6, 2024, sending tremors through a broad area of Southern California, including Los Angeles. The earthquake occurred at 9:09 p.m. PT, with the epicenter located about 18.5 miles southwest of Bakersfield, near Lamont, California.
Earthquake Details
- Magnitude: 5.2 (initially reported as 5.3)
- Epicenter: Approximately 15 miles southwest of Lamont, CA
- Depth: 11 kilometers
Impact and Response
The Los Angeles Fire Department activated its “Earthquake Mode” following the tremor, deploying personnel from all 106 neighborhood fire stations to conduct a strategic survey of the city. This survey included checking critical infrastructure and areas of local concern to ensure there were no significant damages or injuries. By 10 p.m., the LAFD reported no major structural damage or injuries within the city of Los Angeles.
Aftershocks
The initial earthquake was followed by a series of aftershocks, the largest of which measured 4.5, occurring less than a minute after the main quake. In total, over 30 aftershocks were recorded in the area, ranging from magnitudes of 2.5 to 4.5.
Preparedness and Alerts
The earthquake prompted reminders from officials about the importance of preparedness for inevitable seismic activity in the region. The US Geological Survey’s (USGS) ShakeAlert system was activated, providing early warnings to residents across the affected areas.
Summary
The earthquake, while significant, has not resulted in any immediate reports of damage or injuries, thanks to the prompt and efficient response from local authorities and emergency services. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared for future seismic events.
For further information and updates, you can visit the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program and local news outlets like CBS8 and ABC17 News.
Stay safe and stay prepared, Southern California.
