PRELIMINARY 5.5 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE ROCKS LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
LOS ANGELES, CA – In a startling turn of events, a preliminary 5.5 magnitude earthquake rattled Los Angeles, California during the afternoon of Sunday, August 20, 2023. However, the United States Geological Survey quickly adjusted the magnitude to 5.1.
According to reports from the United States Geological Survey, the epicenter of the earthquake was located 6.6 km from the city of Ojai in Ventura County, California. Fortunately, despite the initial panic, the United States National Weather Service has dismissed any tsunami warning.
Shortly after the magnitude 5.1 earthquake, a series of aftershocks occurred, with the largest registering a 3.6 magnitude. So far, there have been no reports of injuries or significant material damage caused by the tremor.
Eyewitnesses reported feeling the quake throughout the region, with slight shaking documented in areas such as the South Bay of Los Angeles County and Riverside County. Several users took to social media to share videos of the earthquake, showing lamps swaying back and forth, albeit at a mild intensity. Reports indicate that the tremor was also felt in Malibu, various parts of Los Angeles, Porter Ranch, and Manhattan Beach, among other locations.
The timing of this earthquake is noteworthy as southern California is currently being pummeled by heavy rains caused by Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm was initially anticipated to make landfall as a hurricane but was downgraded before reaching the United States. Despite the storm weakening, it is predicted to continue causing rainfall in the region over the next few hours.
Although the earthquake may have caused temporary concern, it appears to have resulted in little to no damage overall. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and residents are urged to remain vigilant.
As always, experts emphasize the importance of preparedness and caution during seismic events, reminding individuals to secure loose objects and have emergency kits readily available.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.