5.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Ridgecrest, Felt in Los Angeles
Wednesday came to a shaky ending after a 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck near Ridgecrest, CA … with shockwaves felt throughout Southern California.
The quake struck at 6:32 PM, and occurred just 14 miles east of Ridgecrest, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The temblor even triggered Los Angeles’s ShakeAlert app, which warned Angelinos to drop and seek safety moments before the quake hit.
The shaking was felt in downtown Los Angeles, in addition to San Diego, Stockton and Las Vegas. Many residents described this quake as a “bumping” and “rolling” motion.
According to seismologist Lucy Jones, Wednesday’s quake was another aftershock to the 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck near Ridgecrest last July.
“Yes, an earthquake. A M5.5 at the very southern end of the 2019 Ridgecrest aftershock zone. This is a large late aftershock – do you remember that I said these are common?,” Jones tweeted after the event.
There have been many aftershocks in the area since last summer’s massive shaker, with more than 80,000 aftershocks in July 2019 alone.
Just one hour after Wednesday’s 5.5 magnitude earthquake, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake hit 40 miles northwest of Ridgecrest, which the USGS reported was also another aftershock.
As seismologists predicted last year, California is heading into a period of increased seismic activity after experiencing an “earthquake drought” over the past decade.
As a result, it’s extremely important to start preparing for the inevitable “Big One” now. Pack your earthquake kits with enough food and water to last everyone in your household (pets included) for at least three days. Secure or mount any large furniture items like TVs and bookshelves, and have your property examined for seismic safety.
If you own an older home or building in California, chances are the property is lacking modern seismic reinforcements. Earthquake retrofitting will protect your property from damage and/or destruction during a large earthquake and ensure the safety of those who reside there.
Julian De La Torre is an expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, foundation contractors, earthquake retrofitting, and foundation repair. Julian’s company, Julian Construction, has inspected over 30,000 structures, working with engineering firms and local departments of building & safety. The company has done more foundation repair and earthquake retrofitting in Los Angeles than any other company in the area over the last five years.
