A magnitude 3.8 earthquake lightly shook Malibu and the Westside of Los Angeles on Friday afternoon, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The epicenter was identified approximately 4.6 miles north of Point Dume, in the mountainous region above Malibu’s city limits. Notably, this quake marks the seventh seismic activity recorded in the area this year.
The U.S. Geological Survey classified the shaking as “weak,” which corresponds to Level 3 on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale. This level of shaking could have been felt in Malibu, Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, Woodland Hills, Canoga Park, Winnetka, and Reseda. Inside buildings, such shaking is typically noticeable, particularly on upper floors, and may cause vehicles to sway slightly.
In nearby regions such as the San Fernando Valley, Santa Monica, and the broader Los Angeles Basin, the shaking was felt at an intensity classified as Level 2. This level of intensity is less noticeable and is usually felt only by a few individuals at rest, predominantly on upper levels.
Residents in Mar Vista experienced shaking lasting around 10 to 15 seconds, comparable to the sensation of someone nudging a desk back and forth. The epicenter of Friday’s quake was located near previous seismic events, including a magnitude 4.7 earthquake on September 12, which surprised local residents, including the mayor of Malibu, and startled live news anchors during broadcasts. Additionally, it was near a magnitude 4.6 earthquake from February 9.
According to seismologist Lucy Jones, Southern California has encountered 15 significant seismic sequences this year that included at least one earthquake of magnitude 4 or higher, marking the highest annual total in 65 years, surpassing the previously noted 13 in 1988.
While this year’s seismic activity may be concerning, it does not predict when a major, damaging earthquake might occur. The last significant quake in Los Angeles County happened three decades ago, a magnitude 6.7 quake that resulted in numerous casualties and extensive damage.
On a more positive note, as residents become increasingly aware of these seismic occurrences, it creates an opportunity for enhanced preparedness. Local initiatives like the Unshaken newsletter offer vital resources on emergency preparedness, helping communities equip themselves with the knowledge and tools needed for potential future quakes. Residents are encouraged to learn about earthquake kits and preparedness measures, fostering a proactive approach to minimizing risk in the face of natural disasters.