Magnitude 3.5 Earthquake Shakes Julian, No Immediate Damage Reported

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — A magnitude 3.5 earthquake struck around 3 miles south of Julian on Sunday afternoon, causing mild shaking but no reports of injuries or significant damage. The earthquake, which occurred at 3:54 p.m., was recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The quake was centered approximately 5 kilometers south of Julian in east San Diego County. Abbie Black, a reporter from CBS 8, noted that people in Santee also felt the shaking, indicating that the tremors reached a wider area despite the earthquake’s relatively low magnitude.

As of the latest updates, local authorities have not reported any injuries or structural harm due to the tremor. The event comes as a reminder for residents to be prepared for potential seismic activity.

The City of San Diego has outlined earthquake safety guidelines. Residents are advised to identify safe spots in their homes, eliminate hazards such as unsecured items, and prepare emergency kits with necessary supplies. People should designate meeting places and contacts in case of separation during an earthquake.

During an earthquake, the city recommends the following actions: if indoors, drop to the ground, cover your head and neck, and hold onto sturdy furniture until the shaking stops. Outside, it’s crucial to remain clear of buildings, trees, and power lines. If you are in a vehicle, park away from these structures and avoid bridges.

Following an earthquake, it’s essential to check homes for damages, prevent fires, and address any gas leaks. Residents should wear sturdy clothing and gear to protect themselves from debris and remain alert for aftershocks.

Experts estimate that a significantly larger earthquake along the Rose Canyon Fault could lead to catastrophic results. A magnitude 6.9 earthquake could result in up to $38 billion in damages and as many as 800 fatalities, according to research from the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute.

Historically, the most severe earthquake recorded in California was a magnitude 6.9 quake in the Bay Area in 1989, which led to 63 fatalities and injuries to over 3,750 people. The Southern California Earthquake Center has indicated a 75% probability of a 7.0 magnitude quake hitting Southern California by 2045.

Dr. Pat Abbott, professor of geology emeritus at San Diego State University, emphasized the unpredictability of earthquakes: “We cannot predict earthquakes. But geologically, we are overdue for what we estimate to be a 7.8 magnitude on the Salton Sea.”

In comparison, the devastation caused by recent earthquakes in Turkey — with one measuring 7.8 magnitude and another at 7.5 — has resulted in the deaths of over 11,000 people, showcasing the difference in scale and infrastructural resilience between the two regions.

“California is not going to receive that same level of destruction,” Abbott clarified. “I’m not saying we’re going to experience destruction… but widespread collapse of buildings? No.”