A magnitude 5.3 earthquake hit the San Joaquin Valley late Tuesday, centered in Lamont, California, about 21 miles from Bakersfield, causing no injuries or damage. The quake was felt as far as Los Angeles, 104 miles away, and was followed by numerous aftershocks. Renowned seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones noted it was not on the 1952 White Wolf fault. The last major earthquake in California was a 6.4 magnitude near Ferndale in 2022, causing two indirect deaths and significant damage. California’s biggest recorded earthquakes since 1800 include a 7.9 in Fort Tejon in 1857 and a 7.8 in San Francisco in 1906. During an earthquake, drop to hands and knees, cover head and neck, crawl under a table if possible, or next to an interior wall away from windows. If driving, slow down, pull over, remain in the vehicle with seat belt fastened, and continue driving cautiously once it is safe. It is advised to avoid bridges and ramps. Regular earthquakes occur, but not all are felt, and precautions should be taken depending on the situation during the event.
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Earthquake in California near Bakersfield causes tension
