BRAWLEY, Calif. (KABC) — A reported earthquake swarm rattled Imperial County on Saturday, with over 150 recorded quakes in the city of Brawley, south of the Salton Sea — including one 4.5 magnitude.
The United States Geological Survey has recorded at least 29 quakes over 2.5 magnitude, but well over 150 earthquakes total, including small ones, have been recorded on Saturday, according to the Caltech Seismological Laboratory.
The first quake reported by USGS — a 3.5 magnitude — struck nearly two miles west-south-west of Brawley, California, at 4:14 p.m., at a depth of just over eight and a half miles.
Then, the quakes continued intermittently over the span of several hours. They all ended up being foreshocks to a 4.5-magnitude earthquake that was recorded at 8:39 p.m. at a depth of just over nine miles, according to USGS. Other sizable quakes included a 4.4 at 8:03 p.m. and a 4.0 at 8:13 p.m.
After that, several aftershocks continued late into the night.
At least 29 additional earthquakes were reported by USGS with magnitudes ranging between 2.5 and 4.5.
No injuries or damage were immediately reported.
The city of Brawley issued a statement, saying it is aware of the recent earthquake activity, and public safety personnel are actively monitoring conditions.
“At this time, there are no reports of significant damage or threats to public safety. However, residents are encouraged to remain alert and prepared, as aftershocks may occur,” the city wrote.
Dr. Lucy Jones says earthquake swarms are typical for that area, and more quakes are likely to be reported.
One Eyewitness News viewer who didn’t want to be shown on camera called ABC7 about the swarm and said she felt another earthquake while she was on the phone with us.
“I was just scared. All of a sudden, it was a big jolt, and everything started moving. I was like, ‘Holy crud.’ They just kept on coming and coming and coming and coming. And as we’re speaking right now, I do feel it rumbling beneath me.” Kathleen Singh said.
Are you prepared for “the big one”?
ABC7 has compiled a list of items that are important to have in your earthquake kit so that you’re prepared for “the big one.”
ABC7 has compiled a list of items that are important to have in your earthquake kit so that you’re prepared for “the big one.”
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