A 4.7 magnitude earthquake centered near Malibu shook much of Southern California on Thursday morning. The tremor initially reported as a 5.1 magnitude quake was downgraded and occurred around 7:28 a.m. at a depth of roughly six to seven miles beneath the surface.
Tremors were felt in areas
stretching from Malibu to the San Fernando Valley including Santa Monica,
Hermosa Beach, Hollywood Hills and Anaheim.
While no significant injuries or damage have been reported aftershocks followed with magnitudes ranging between 1.8 and 3.4. Seismologists including Dr. Lucy Jones, indicated that while this event was not damaging, it serves as a reminder that Southern California has been experiencing a heightened frequency of earthquakes.
In fact, this year has seen 14 seismic
events of magnitude 4.0 or higher, compared to the usual average of eight.
The Los Angeles Metro system implemented precautionary measures by slowing trains to inspect for potential damage. Southern California despite its calm periods is still an active seismic region and experts continue to monitor the frequency and patterns of these quakes.