Residents of parts of Los Angeles County experienced a minor earthquake centered west of Malibu, California, on Sunday afternoon. Preliminary estimates from the U.S. Geological Survey indicated that the quake had a magnitude of 4.1.
Following the initial tremor, aftershocks of magnitudes 2.5, 3.0, and 2.8 were recorded within five minutes, according to the agency.
There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The Los Angeles Fire Department stated that the earthquake was not strong enough to warrant an official earthquake response.
Many residents felt the mild shaking, though it did not cause significant alarm. Alan Delarosa, a manager at Geoffrey’s Malibu, reported feeling the room rocking in his office shortly after 1 p.m. He noted that the disturbance lasted about three seconds, and after checking on his staff and guests, he confirmed that the gas line was safe and no glass was broken.
Amelia Goudzwaard, who had just arrived at Malibu Fitness when the earthquake struck, initially thought the shaking was caused by someone dropping weights. However, she quickly realized it was an earthquake as the entire building moved. Despite the experience, she did not feel it was severe enough to be overly concerned.
The earthquake occurred during a time when experts suggest there may be increased seismic activity in California, following decades of relative quiet. However, this event does not indicate that a larger, catastrophic quake is more likely.
Seismologists have long warned that a significant earthquake could occur at any time, similar to past events such as the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989 and the Northridge earthquake in 1994, both of which resulted in substantial casualties and damage.
Goudzwaard, who lost her home in the 2018 Woolsey fire, expressed heightened sensitivity to natural events in Southern California, particularly after experiencing recent floods and fires. She remarked, “I am starting to realize this is my new normal.”