Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 16, 2024 5:23 am GMT
On October 1, 2024, a 3.5-magnitude earthquake struck the Ontario area, surprising residents in Southern California. The tremor hit just before 1 p.m., with its epicenter located about 1.24 miles southeast of Ontario, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Details of the Earthquake
This earthquake initially registered as a 3.1-magnitude event shortly before it was upgraded by USGS to 3.5 about half an hour later. The quake occurred at a depth of approximately three miles, making it relatively shallow. Folks across the region felt the ground shake, with reports coming in from:
- Highland to the east
- Camp Pendleton to the south
- Lakewood to the west
- Azusa to the north
Despite the noticeable tremor, there were no reports of injuries or damage.
Community Reaction
Residents in the Inland Empire felt the effects of the earthquake, leading to a mix of surprise and concern. Some people took to social media to share their experiences, asking, “Did you feel that?” and discussing how they reacted.
Many inland areas have become accustomed to the occasional earthquake, given California’s history with seismic activities. This tremor reminded residents of the importance of earthquake preparedness.
Preparedness Tips
Here are some quick tips to keep in mind during an earthquake:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: When the ground shakes, get low, protect your head and neck, and cover yourself if possible.
- Stay Indoors: If indoors, remain there until the shaking stops. If outside, move to an open area away from buildings and power lines.
- Create an Emergency Kit: Keep essential supplies like water, food, and first aid items handy.
It’s crucial to stay informed about seismic safety, especially in an area known for its earthquakes.
Seismic Activity is Common
Earthquakes are an everyday occurrence in California. The state experiences thousands of tremors each year, although many go unnoticed. The USGS continually monitors seismic activity to provide updates and alerts about significant events.
The recent earthquake adds to a list of minor seismic activities felt across the region this year. Many in California are familiar with the Richter scale, which measures the magnitude of earthquakes; lower magnitudes like this one are often felt but rarely cause harm.
Future Updates
As of now, the earthquake is considered a minor event. The USGS and local news outlets will provide further updates as more information becomes available. Anyone interested in staying informed can follow local news sources or visit the USGS website for accurate and timely information.
The community’s quick response to the earthquake, along with no reports of harm, reflects the resilience of individuals living in seismic zones. Awareness and preparedness are key in handling such unexpected natural events.
A small earthquake with a strength of 3.5 happened near Ontario, and it might have made some people a bit scared. This reminds us that California has a lot of changes in the ground. It’s important for everyone living there to stay alert and be ready for any earthquakes that might happen in the future.
