Preliminary 3.5 magnitude earthquake rattles Fontana, surrounding areas
Los Angeles County shakes after multiple earthquakes
A 3.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Fontana area in California on Friday night, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred at 10:55 p.m. PT and was centered about 5 miles north-northeast of Fontana, near the city of Rialto.
The earthquake was felt throughout the Los Angeles area, with reports of shaking in cities such as San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange County. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Multiple quakes rattle the area
The 3.5 magnitude earthquake was preceded by two smaller quakes in the same area earlier in the evening. A 2.5 magnitude quake struck at 8:19 p.m. PT, followed by a 2.8 magnitude quake at 9:11 p.m. PT.
The USGS says that it is not uncommon for multiple earthquakes to occur in the same area over a short period of time. This is because earthquakes are often caused by the movement of tectonic plates, and the energy released by one earthquake can trigger other quakes in the surrounding area.
Experts monitoring the situation
The USGS is continuing to monitor the situation and is urging residents to be prepared for aftershocks. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that can occur after a larger earthquake. They can sometimes be felt hours, days, or even weeks after the main quake.
If you feel an aftershock, the USGS recommends that you drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. You should also be prepared to evacuate your home if necessary.
