Magnitude 4.4 Earthquake Rattles Los Angeles, Highland Park Area
Los Angeles Shakedown
An unforeseen 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck the heavily occupied regions of Los Angeles County on Monday, shaking numerous buildings and causing distress among residents. The U.S. Geological Survey initially reported the earthquake as a 4.7 magnitude but quickly revised it to 4.4. Those located near the epicenter, Highland Park, experienced a major tremor followed by significant rattling that sent frightened pets scurrying.
“It was very, very scary,”
Aftershocks and Infrastructure Check
Fire departments across Los Angeles County promptly entered earthquake mode to evaluate potential damage to regional infrastructure. By 1:15 p.m., the Los Angeles city fire department concluded their assessment and reported no significant damage. However minor damage was reported in Pasadena, merely a few miles from the epicenter, where a pipe burst caused water leakage at the city hall, leading to an evacuation of approximately 200 employees. Firefighters were able to shut off the pipeline swiftly and also aided in freeing an individual trapped in a city hall elevator.
Fire crews also investigated reports of a broken gas line, although it’s yet to be confirmed if it’s related to the earthquake. One fire department official described the feeling of being out driving during the quake as if “the whole ground was going away from under me.”
Seismologists’ Insight on the Earthquake
Noted seismologist, Dr. Lucy Jones, explained the apparent-severity of the earthquake despite its 4.4 magnitude. The earthquake’s significant impact is attributed to the densely populated area it struck. Many earthquakes hitting less-populated regions don’t feel as strong once they reverberate to the urban heartland.
Dr. Jones stated, “There’s a lot of people on top of this earthquake,” “The other earthquakes you’ve been feeling… that’s because you were farther away.”
In terms of identifying the specific fault involved, the seismologist mentioned the challenge. The Highland Park region hosts a network of hidden faults that do not appear on the surface like those elsewhere. While the same network was implicated in the 1987 Whittier Narrows quake, it’s uncertain whether it’s the same strand due to its complex and deep-seated nature.
Preparation for Future Seismic Events
Authorities have urged all residents to stock their earthquake kits with crucial items to be prepared for substantial seismic incidents in the future. The key is to keep the kit within arm’s reach and continuously replenish it with necessary items such as fresh water, canned food, a first aid kit, and a flashlight among other essentials.
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
