A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck near Lamont, California, on Tuesday night and rumbled through a broad stretch of Southern California, including Los Angeles.
The earthquake's epicenter hit about 15 miles southwest of Lamont – and roughly 25 miles south of Bakersfield – around 9:09 p.m. PT. Initially rated as a 5.3 magnitude, it was later downgraded to 5.2.
Reports indicate that people from Fresno to as far south as Temecula felt the jolt. Despite the widespread impact, no significant infrastructure damage or injuries were reported in Los Angeles, about 100 miles southeast of the epicenter.
The agency estimated a low likelihood of casualties or damage from the quake. Over the next hour, approximately 60 smaller quakes, with ratings as high as 4.5, were recorded by seismologists at the California Institute of Technology.
Describing the 5.2 magnitude earthquake as 'robust,' seismologists noted that it had more aftershocks than usual for its magnitude. They also highlighted the importance of earthquake preparedness, emphasizing that California is earthquake-prone and that larger, more dangerous quakes are possible.
While it is impossible to predict exactly when a large earthquake will occur, seismologists stress that such events are inevitable. They urge residents in earthquake-prone areas to take precautions, such as identifying falling hazards in their homes, creating emergency plans, and considering insurance coverage.
