Pair of Earthquakes Shake Southern California’s Inland Empire on Saturday Morning

On Saturday morning, Southern California experienced two moderate earthquakes that rattled the Inland Empire, leaving millions feeling the tremors.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the first quake, with a magnitude of 3.5, struck at 10:05 a.m. and was centered 4.3 miles southeast of Ontario.

The second, more potent quake occurred just 30 minutes later at 10:34 a.m., registering a magnitude of 3.9, with an epicenter 4.4 miles southeast of Ontario, close to the location of the first tremor.

As of mid-morning, no significant injuries or damages had been reported. Several aftershocks followed in the same region, but all were relatively minor, with magnitudes under 2.5.

California’s Frequent Earthquake Activity

California is well-known for its seismic activity, and these quakes serve as a reminder of the state’s dynamic geological landscape.

According to the USGS, thousands of earthquakes are recorded each year in California, though the vast majority are minor.

A few hundred of these quakes typically reach a magnitude of 3.0, while only about 15 to 20 quakes exceed 4.0 on the Richter scale.

In the U.S., only Alaska surpasses California in terms of the number of quakes per year, making the state one of the most seismically active regions in North America.

What to Do During an Earthquake: Safety Guidelines

Earthquakes can strike without warning, and knowing how to react is critical for safety. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has established clear guidelines to help individuals protect themselves during a quake.

Here are the essential steps you should follow during an earthquake:

Drop, Cover, and Hold On

1. Drop: When the shaking begins, drop down onto your hands and knees. This position prevents you from being knocked over by the force of the quake and allows you to move to safety if needed.
2. Cover: Protect your head and neck with one arm, and if possible, take shelter under a sturdy desk or table. If no shelter is nearby, position yourself near an interior wall away from windows. Remain low and crouched to protect your vital organs.
3. Hold On: If you’re under shelter, hold on to it until the shaking ceases. Be prepared to move with the shelter if it shifts during the tremor.

These basic safety guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of injury during an earthquake and should be practiced regularly, especially for those living in earthquake-prone areas like California.

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Aftershocks and Ongoing Monitoring

While the two quakes in the Inland Empire were not significant enough to cause widespread damage, aftershocks have continued to occur.

Residents should remain alert, as aftershocks can sometimes follow for hours, days, or even weeks after a major quake.

The USGS and local authorities continue to monitor seismic activity in the region closely. With California’s propensity for frequent earthquakes, preparedness is key for everyone living in the area.

Staying Prepared in Earthquake Country

Saturday’s earthquakes in Southern California are a stark reminder that earthquake preparedness should always be a priority, especially in regions known for seismic activity.

While these recent quakes were moderate, they underscore the importance of understanding earthquake safety measures and knowing what to do when the ground starts to shake.

As experts continue to study the effects of these quakes, it’s clear that staying informed and prepared is critical for the safety of residents across the Inland Empire and beyond.

With no current reports of injuries or severe damage, residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow the proper protocols for earthquake safety.