Credited from: CBSNEWS
A strong 5.2 magnitude earthquake shook Southern California at approximately 10 a.m., local time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter was about 2.5 miles south of Julian, near Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, at a depth of 8 miles. The quake’s wide-reaching impacts were felt across Southern California and even into Mexico, as reported by local residents who experienced notable shaking during the event according to CBS News.
The USGS data indicated that at least eight aftershocks followed the initial quake, including one measuring 3.5. California Governor Gavin Newsom's office stated that he is coordinating with local authorities to assess the situation and determine emergency response needs. So far, there have been no initial reports of injuries or significant damage, which would be a relief given the region's seismic activity history according to SFGATE.
A resident from Carlsbad remarked, "We definitely felt a very violent jolt, and it lasted about 10 seconds," confirming the earthquake's intensity. The incident is still under observation as the USGS continues to gather data on potential damage and aftershock activity according to India Times.
Seismologists noted that this earthquake may be associated with the Elsinore Fault, part of the larger San Andreas Fault system. Such tectonic activity underscores California's position as one of the most seismically active regions in the United States, with a rich history of significant earthquakes, including the devastating 1994 Northridge quake according to NPR.