Kasia Dietz
Updated on: October 10, 2024 4:53 pm GMT
Minor Earthquakes Shake Southern California’s Inland Empire
On Saturday morning, September 7, 2024, a series of small earthquakes rattled the Inland Empire region of Southern California, starting with a 3.5-magnitude tremor at 10:05 a.m., followed by a stronger 3.9-magnitude quake at 10:34 a.m. Both quakes had their epicenters near Ontario, approximately three miles southwest from the city’s center. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported a total of 32 smaller aftershocks throughout the day, causing concern among residents but no significant damage.
The Earthquake Sequence
First Earthquake Strikes
The initial tremor, a 3.5-magnitude earthquake, struck just after 10 a.m. and was followed by a considerably more robust 3.9-magnitude quake nearly 30 minutes later. Dr. Lucy Jones, a notable seismologist, noted that there were over a dozen aftershocks that followed the stronger quake, calling the sequence a “small swarm.”
Details of the Earthquakes
- First Earthquake: 3.5 magnitude at 10:05 a.m., located three miles southeast of Ontario.
- Second Earthquake: 3.9 magnitude at 10:34 a.m., centered east-southeast of Ontario.
- Aftershocks: A total of 32 aftershocks reported, with magnitudes ranging from 1.0 to 2.6.
Local Reactions
Residents across multiple cities, including Ontario, Fontana, and San Bernardino, reported feeling the tremors. Store clerk Lucy Campa described the experience, saying, “All of a sudden everything shook. I felt like the truck was coming through the store.” Another resident, Gaby Galdamez, remarked, “The second one hit and it was just… everyone froze for a second.”
Significance of the Earthquakes
According to seismologists, this string of quakes marks the most seismically active year for Southern California since 1988. Dr. Lucy Jones noted the importance of this occurrence, stating, “I’ve seen this type of cluster in Fontana dozens of times in my decades watching SoCal quakes.” This particular area has not experienced a 3.9-magnitude earthquake since 1953, making Saturday’s event significant for local geology.
Recent Seismic Activity in Southern California
Previous Earthquakes
Earlier in the summer, Southern California faced a series of notable tremors, including:
- A 3.5-magnitude earthquake near Pasadena in June.
- A 4.4-magnitude quake in August, impacting wide areas of Los Angeles County.
- A 5.5-magnitude quake that rattled Central California and was felt as far away as Los Angeles.
Preparedness and Future Risks
Although no significant damage was reported from Saturday’s tremors, experts emphasize the importance of earthquake preparedness. Seismologist John Vidale warned that aftershocks can trigger further seismic activity, saying, “Each of those aftershocks could trigger another earthquake.” This ongoing seismic activity raises the need for residents to stay prepared for potential future quakes.
Creating an Earthquake Kit
Residents are advised to prepare an earthquake emergency kit, which should include:
- Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
- Non-perishable food (enough for three days)
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Local maps
- Medications
Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance
The recent series of earthquakes in Ontario serve as a reminder of the seismic risks that California faces. With tremors continuing to affect the region, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared for possible future earthquakes. As Dr. Lucy Jones noted, these types of seismic activities are not unusual, but it is crucial for communities to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves and their families.
If you want to learn more about how to get ready for earthquakes, check out the California earthquake preparedness website.
