A 4.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Malibu, California, on September 12, 2024, at approximately 7:30 a.m. local time. The quake was felt widely across the region, but Los Angeles Fire officials reported no significant damage or injuries. Mayor Steve Uhring noted experiencing a strong jolt in his home but had no time to take cover. Residents reported rattling furniture and received emergency alerts during the event [8f8bc6a3].
This earthquake follows a series of recent seismic events in Southern California, including a 5.2-magnitude quake near Bakersfield on August 7 and a 4.4-magnitude quake near Pasadena on August 12. Lucy Jones, a prominent earthquake expert, commented on the situation, stating that while there has been an increase in seismic activity this year—with over a dozen quakes of magnitude 4.0 or higher—these frequent smaller quakes do not indicate an imminent major earthquake [8f8bc6a3].
The recent uptick in seismic activity has raised concerns among residents, but experts emphasize that such occurrences are common in California, which is situated along the seismically active San Andreas Fault. The state has a long history of earthquakes, and preparedness measures are crucial for public safety [8f8bc6a3].
In the wake of these events, local authorities continue to monitor the situation and encourage residents to stay informed about emergency protocols. The California Office of Emergency Services has reiterated the importance of having an emergency plan and supplies ready in case of a larger quake [8f8bc6a3].