San Bernardino Shaken by a Preliminary 4.2-Magnitude Earthquake

On a Wednesday evening, at 7:43 p.m. sharp, a preliminary 4.2-magnitude earthquake jolted the city of San Bernardino, California, and its environs. The temblor, recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), sent tremors across the region, with residents experiencing sensations ranging from gentle shaking to more intense jolts.

Epicenter and Felt Area:

The epicenter of the earthquake was situated approximately 1.864 miles southwest of San Bernardino, placing it in a densely populated area. The shaking was felt across a wide swath of Southern California, with residents in cities such as Burbank, Santa Fe Springs, Chino, and Fontana reporting noticeable tremors. Despite the proximity to residential neighborhoods, there were no immediate reports of injuries or structural damage.

Expert Insights:

According to Dr. Allen Husker of CalTech’s Seismological Laboratory, the earthquake’s shallow depth and occurrence in a populated region contributed to the widespread perception of shaking. He explained that while the magnitude of the earthquake was moderate, its proximity to the surface amplified the shaking intensity.

Personal Experiences:

Timothy Key, a resident of San Bernardino, captured the moment the earthquake struck on video. In his recording, the shaking is evident as objects in his home tremble and sway. Key described the experience as sudden and alarming, initially fearing that the entire house might collapse. However, he and his family remained calm, recognizing that it was an earthquake and taking appropriate precautions.

Aftershocks and Preparedness:

Following the initial temblor, several aftershocks were reported in the area, prompting residents to remain prepared for further seismic activity. Authorities advised residents to secure loose objects, have an emergency plan in place, and maintain a supply of essential items such as food, water, and first aid kits.

Seismic Hazards in Southern California:

The San Bernardino earthquake serves as a reminder of the seismic hazards present in Southern California. While the region is no stranger to earthquakes, each event carries the potential for damage and disruption. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about earthquake preparedness measures and to take necessary steps to mitigate the risks associated with seismic activity.

Additional Information and Resources:

• The USGS has issued a ShakeAlert for the San Bernardino area, providing residents with early warning notifications in the event of future earthquakes.
• The California Geological Survey maintains a comprehensive earthquake hazard map, allowing residents to assess the seismic risks in their specific locations.
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides extensive resources and guidance on earthquake preparedness and response.

Call to Action:

Don’t wait for an earthquake to strike before taking action. Educate yourself about earthquake preparedness, create an emergency plan, and assemble a disaster preparedness kit. By working together, we can build a more resilient community that is prepared to face seismic challenges.