3.7 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Malibu, Other Areas Report Tremors

MALIBU, Calif. (KABC) — A 3.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Malibu late Friday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred at approximately 11:44 p.m. local time at a depth of 15.3 kilometers, with its epicenter located 11 kilometers northwest of Malibu.

Residents across several regions reported feeling the tremors, including those in Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, Simi Valley, and Ventura, as well as parts of Los Angeles. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or significant damage.

Social media was abuzz as California residents reacted to the quake. One individual tweeted, “Lemme be one of the first in LA to tweet… EARTHQUAKE!!!!” Another user expressed concern, commenting, “3.7 Earthquake. First fires, then mudslides and now an earthquake.” A third added humorously, “That was a 3.8 magnitude. Is the 10.0 next? With the way 2025 is going for SoCal, expect the unexpected.”

The seismic activity in Malibu comes amid heightened concerns about earthquake preparedness in California. The USGS notes that the state, due to its position on the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences seismic events. However, experts worry that the well-known San Andreas Fault may produce a significant earthquake in the near future.

In a series of smaller tremors leading up to the Malibu quake, California’s coast was shaken by seven earthquakes within a single day, sparking fears of larger events on the horizon. Just two hours before the Malibu quake, a 3.4 magnitude quake was recorded in Hayward, California, along with additional seismic activity occurring in the Petrolia vicinity.

Thursday’s seismic events included a 3.2 magnitude quake and a 2.9 magnitude tremor, with the initial event occurring at 2:06 a.m. ET. The Hayward Fault line, near the recent quakes, has been actively monitored due to its history of larger quakes, including a major event in 1868 that resulted in injuries and fatalities.

Experts assert that it’s essential for Californians to stay alert and prepared for potential seismic activity, given that significant earthquakes historically occur every few decades along these fault lines. A project scientist for Earthquake Early Warning at the Berkeley Seismology Lab emphasized this by stating, “It is very likely that the Hayward fault will rupture and produce a significant earthquake within the next 30 years.”

As California updates its earthquake preparedness strategies, officials encourage residents to have emergency plans and supplies ready, ensuring safety during seismic events.