Preliminary 4.2-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes San Bernardino

A preliminary 4.2-magnitude earthquake shook the city of San Bernardino in Southern California on Wednesday evening, according to the United States Geological Survey. The temblor originated 1.864 miles southwest of San Bernardino. Fortunately, no injuries or structural damage have been reported.

Residents in nearby areas such as Burbank, Santa Fe Springs, Chino, Fontana, and even as far as Orange County, felt the jolt caused by the earthquake. Timothy Key, a resident who was recording a video at the time, described the sudden shaking as chaotic and jarring.

The earthquake, initially reported as a 4.5 magnitude, has now been downgraded. Seismologist Dr. Allen Husker from CalTech’s Seismological Laboratory explained that although it was close to the surface, the densely populated region of San Bernardino County amplified the impact of the earthquake, making it more noticeable to residents.

While the quake was widely felt, there are no immediate reports of injuries or property damage. Authorities in San Bernardino and neighboring municipalities will assess buildings for any potential damage caused by the seismic activity.

The U.S. Geological Survey’s intensity map shows that people as far as Santa Clarita, Palmdale, Barstow, Indio, and San Diego reported feeling the earthquake. Dr. Lucy Jones, a well-known seismologist, mentioned on social media that the quake occurred near the San Jacinto fault, which is usually locked and occasionally experiences small quakes in its locked segments.

This is the second 4.2-magnitude earthquake to hit the San Bernardino area this month. Fortunately, earthquakes of this magnitude typically result in no more than minor damage.