Magnitude-4.7 Malibu earthquake shakes Southern California



A 4.7 magnitude earthquake rattled the Los Angeles area early Thursday. This video was broadcast on the NBC4 News at 7 a.m. on Sept. 12, 2024. 


A Thursday morning earthquake centered near Malibu shook large portions of Southern California, affecting areas from the coast to inland communities. Initially reported as a magnitude 5.1, the quake was later downgraded to 4.7. It was followed by a series of aftershocks, ranging from magnitudes 1.8 to 3.4, with additional aftershocks expected in the coming hours and days.

Centered just north of Malibu, the 7:28 a.m. earthquake, at a depth of about seven miles, caused shaking in areas including Malibu, Hermosa Beach, La Mirada, Anaheim, Santa Monica, the Hollywood Hills, and parts of the San Fernando Valley. Shallow earthquakes, typically between 0 and 40 miles deep, are more likely to be felt. 

There were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage. Los Angeles' Metro system will slow train operations to inspect for any potential damage, a standard procedure following earthquakes.

Southern California has experienced several recent quakes, including a magnitude-5.2 tremor south of Bakersfield.

Evacuation warnings and orders remain in place.

“We are having earthquakes, but none have caused damage. They’ve all been small,” said seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones. “This is a good reminder that the quiet of the last couple of decades is not our long-term reality.”