USGS reports 5.4 earthquake hits near Borrego Springs California
On July 7, 2010 at just prior to rush hour local time an earthquake shook up southern California.The 30 seconds of shaking and vibration was centered approximately 60 miles northeast of San Diego and 13 miles from the nearest city, Borrego Springs, however the tremors were felt across the region. Reports of strong shaking came from San Diego, Los Angeles and other parts of southern California. Other reports claim areas in northern Mexico, Arizona and Nevada also felt feeling the tremors.The earthquake was located 130 miles east of Los Angeles and 28 miles south of Palm Springs. Initially the U.S. Geological Survey reported the earthquake as being just under a 6.0 magnitude, but this was later downgraded to a magnitude of 5.4. A 6.0 or higher magnitude earthquake is considered a 'strong' earthquake.
At the time of the earthquake no reports of casualties or damages were reported in any of the areas which felt the impact of the quake. The area is still being checked out to ensure people and structures are OK, and hopefully no serious injuries or worse resulted from the shaking.
This earthquake seems to have no serious aftermath and ABC affiliate KABC in Los Angeles reported the Angeles International Airport issued a statement at approximately 5 p.m. which said "Operations at Los Angeles International Airport are running normally following a small earthquake this afternoon. As always passengers are asked to contact their airlines for the latest information regarding the status of their flights."
Disneyland also reported closed down briefly to give officials a chance to inspect rides to make sure no damage had been sustained to the equipment and ensure visitor safety.
Borrego Springs, which is located in San Diego County and closest to the epicenter, experienced several 3.0 magnitude aftershocks after the initial quake passed, the largest being 3.6. San Diego 6 News reports a viewer stated the "earthquake hit pretty hard here" and "Largest earthquake I have felt in a long time" (San Diego 6 News).
Typically it is common for aftershocks to be felt for several days after an earthquake in this area. San Diego 6 News reported by 5:30 p.m., approximately 35 minutes after the initial quake, more than 30 aftershocks were recorded.
KABC also indicated preliminary reports state the temblor occurred approximately 7.3 miles deep and the earthquake happened on the San Jacinto Fault.
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