A preliminary magnitude-4.4 earthquake struck near South Pasadena on Monday afternoon, sending tremors felt across many areas of Southern California. The quake hit around 12:20 p.m., approximately 4 kilometers from South Pasadena.
In the aftermath of the quake, Pasadena reported several incidents related to the earthquake, including one person trapped in an elevator and a water pipe bursting in front of city hall, according to Lisa Derderian, the city’s public information officer. She noted the shaking was particularly strong in Pasadena, coinciding with the first day of school for the Pasadena Unified School District. Derderian expressed hope that teachers and school staff would address safety measures regarding potential aftershocks with students.
The shaking was felt throughout the Los Angeles region and northern Orange County. Robert De Groot from the U.S. Geological Survey confirmed that ShakeAlert early warning messages were disseminated shortly after the tremor. The earthquake was initially recorded as a magnitude-4.7, with a depth of 9 kilometers.
Reports also indicate that at least two aftershocks, each with an intensity of around 2.1, were experienced in the area, according to NBC4 Meteorologist David Biggar.
The population of South Pasadena is over 26,000 residents. The Los Angeles Police Department has urged the community to remain prepared for aftershocks and to utilize 911 only for emergencies.
This story is still developing.