A magnitude 3.8 earthquake shook Malibu and parts of Los Angeles’ Westside on Friday afternoon, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter of the quake was located approximately 4.6 miles north of Point Dume, encompassing mountainous terrain just outside Malibu’s boundaries. This marks the seventh seismic event in this area during the year.
The shaking was classified as “weak,” or Level 3, according to the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale. Residents in Malibu, Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, Woodland Hills, Canoga Park, Winnetka, and Reseda likely noticed the tremors, which can cause minor disturbances such as rocking idle vehicles and rattling items indoors.
For those in the San Fernando Valley, Santa Monica, and the broader Los Angeles Basin, a slightly lower intensity of shaking – Level 2 – may have been experienced. Many people at rest would hardly have felt it, except possibly on upper floors of taller buildings. In Mar Vista, individuals reported feeling the quake for about 10 to 15 seconds, likening it to someone nudging their desk.
Notably, Friday’s quake was located just northeast of a more significant magnitude 4.7 earthquake that occurred on September 12th, which startled residents and local news anchors alike. Additionally, it was near a magnitude 4.6 quake on February 9 that resulted in visible damages such as cracked walls and items being displaced.
Seismologist Lucy Jones noted that Southern California has experienced an exceptionally active seismic year, with 15 independent sequences featuring one or more earthquakes of magnitude 4 or greater—the most in over six decades. Such activity raises awareness about the region’s seismic risks, although forecasting the timing of a major earthquake remains uncertain. The last significant quake in Los Angeles County was a magnitude 6.7 quake 30 years ago, which caused extensive damage and loss of life.
As the region remains seismically active, residents are encouraged to prepare for potential earthquakes. For guidance on emergency preparedness and developing personal safety plans, individuals can subscribe to the Unshaken newsletter, which provides helpful tips and resources over a six-week span.
It’s vital for communities to maintain awareness and preparedness for earthquakes. Despite the unsettling occurrences, they serve as reminders of the importance of readiness and resilience in the face of natural challenges.