A magnitude-4.4 earthquake struck Highland Park on Monday afternoon, sending tremors that were felt across many areas of Southern California. The quake occurred around 12:20 p.m., leading to various earthquake-related incidents in Pasadena, including one individual becoming trapped in an elevator and a water pipe burst in front of city hall, as reported by city public information officer Lisa Derderian.
“Strong shaking was noted in Pasadena,” Derderian mentioned, emphasizing that it coincided with the first day of school for the Pasadena Unified School District. She expressed hopes that faculty members were discussing safety protocols and potential aftershocks with students.
Quickly responding to the earthquake, the Los Angeles Fire Department activated its emergency procedures, dispatching fire crews throughout the area to examine for damage. Fortunately, no significant issues were discovered.
Tremors were also felt throughout the Los Angeles region and northern Orange County, according to Robert De Groot from the U.S. Geological Survey, who noted that ShakeAlert early warning messages were issued after the incident. Initially estimated to be of magnitude 4.7, the quake was eventually confirmed at 4.4 with a depth of 9 kilometers.
Two aftershocks registering approximately 2.1 were experienced in the vicinity, according to NBC4 Meteorologist David Biggar. Residents in the East Los Angeles neighborhood of El Sereno reported strong sensations from the quake, with one resident, Lorrie Munoz, describing it as a severe jolt that made her fear for her home’s stability.
The Los Angeles Police Department alerted the public to stay ready for aftershocks. They issued a reminder to use 911 only for emergencies in the wake of the earthquake.
In response to the shaking, which was felt as far south as San Diego, experts emphasized the importance of being prepared for such events. Jeff Edelstein, owner of SOS Survival Products, recommended essential items for emergency kits, including water for a minimum of three days to two weeks, food supplies, first aid kits, and reliable lighting sources like flashlights and batteries.
Edelstein recalled the devastation of the 1994 Northridge earthquake, sharing how his company developed an “under-the-bed kit” inspired by that event. He advised that while emergency kits do not need to be elaborate, they should be current and effectively equipped.