Southern California experienced a series of earthquakes on September 7, 2024, with the largest being a 3.9-magnitude tremor. The earthquakes occurred near Ontario and were felt across various parts of the region. No significant damages or injuries were reported, but the events are part of the most seismically active year since 1988.
On September 7, 2024, Southern California was rattled by a series of earthquakes, the most significant being a 3.9-magnitude quake. These tremors were concentrated around Ontario in San Bernardino County and were part of a larger seismic pattern that has marked 2024 as a particularly active year for earthquakes in the region.
The initial 3.5-magnitude earthquake struck at 10:05 AM, with its epicenter located just southeast of Ontario. This was closely followed by a stronger 3.9-magnitude quake at 10:34 AM. The area experienced over 30 smaller aftershocks throughout the day, with magnitudes ranging from 1.0 to 2.6. The quakes were part of what seismologists refer to as a 'small swarm' occurring along the Fontana Seismicity Lineation, a region historically prone to such clusters of seismic activity.
Despite the shaking, no significant damages or injuries were reported immediately following the earthquakes. Local authorities and the California Department of Public Health reiterated safety protocols, advising residents to 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' during such events. The rapid community and governmental response highlights the region's preparedness for seismic activities, attributed partly to stringent building codes and public awareness campaigns.
2024 has been marked as the most seismically active year in Southern California since 1988. Experts like Dr. Lucy Jones have noted the unusual frequency and clustering of quakes, particularly in the Fontana Seismicity Lineation. This pattern raises concerns about the possibility of larger seismic events in the near future, prompting ongoing monitoring and research by geological experts.
While the recent earthquakes in Southern California were not destructive, their occurrence is a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to seismic events. Ongoing education, preparedness, and adherence to safety measures remain crucial for minimizing the impact of future earthquakes.
"This one easily could have broken some windows." - Brian Solinsky
"Today we are having a small swarm in the Fontana Seismicity Lineation, a northeast-striking line of many small quakes." - Dr. Lucy Jones