Residents near the Malibu coast were nudged by a tremor Wednesday morning, as a magnitude 3.2 earthquake was reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). According to KTLA, the quake occurred at 9:33 a.m. with an epicenter approximately 3.1 miles south-southwest of Malibu Beach, at a depth of about 7.9 miles. While this may not be a major earthquake by California's standards, such events are a reminder of the state's seismic activity.
A similar report was noted by FOX LA, which mentioned there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries from the earthquake. Geologists assert that structural damage from an earthquake is less likely unless the magnitude is significantly higher, typically above 4 or 5 on the Richter scale. Moments before this quake, another minor, 2.2-magnitude earthquake shook Riverside County on the Cahuilla Reservation.
In the event of such earthquakes, the California Department of Public Health advises to "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." This safety protocol involves dropping to hands and knees, covering the head and neck, and holding on to a shelter, like a table or desk, if available, as reported by KTLA.
An interactive map detailing the quake's location in the water near Pepperdine University was presented by CBS News Los Angeles. The USGS Community Internet Intensity Map described the shaking as "weak" with an intensity level of 2 out of 10.
