Los Angeles, CA – A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck Southern California on Monday morning, sending tremors across the region from San Diego to Los Angeles.
The quake occurred at 10:08 a.m. PT and was centered near Julian, California, according to experts at the Seismological Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). It originated approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) below the surface, making it a relatively deep earthquake.
Prior to the main event, a magnitude 3.3 foreshock was recorded just before 4 p.m. on Sunday. Caltech seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones confirmed that the seismic activity appears linked to the Elsinore Fault Line, one of the major faults in Southern California.
“Every earthquake could be a foreshock to something bigger,” Dr. Jones warned, noting that there is typically a 5% chance that a significant quake is followed by a stronger one.
Widespread Shaking Felt Across the Region
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), residents closest to the epicenter experienced moderate shaking, while more than 25 million people across the state felt weak to light tremors.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the event. His office confirmed that the state is coordinating with local authorities to assess any potential damage and determine if emergency response efforts are needed.
“The state is coordinating with local authorities to assess any damage and if emergency response is needed,” a statement from the governor’s office read.
As of now, no major damage or injuries have been reported, but officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
