Earthquakes

‘Like a hard jolt.' Magnitude-4.4 earthquake rocks Highland Park

At least one person was trapped inside an elevator, and a water pipe burst in front of city hall, a Pasadena official said.

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Violent shaking was felt across Southern California as a 4.4-magnitude earthquake rattled Highland Park, reminding the public to stay prepared in case of a disaster. Darsha Philips reports for the NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024.

Many parts of Southern California felt shaking Monday afternoon as a preliminary magnitude-4.4 earthquake shook Highland Park.

Within minutes from the quake that struck at around 12:20 p.m., earthquake-related incidents were reported in the city of Pasadena with one person being trapped inside an elevator and a water pipe bursting in front of city hall, according to Lisa Derderian, the public information officer for the city.

"The quake was felt strong in Pasadena here," Derderian said, adding it's the first day of school for the Pasadena Unified School District. "(We're) hoping that teacher and school personnel are talking to them about what to do and aftershocks."

The Los Angeles Fire Department went into earthquake mode, with fire crews from all stations deployed to survey for damage. No major issues were found, thankfully.

Shaking was felt across the Los Angeles region as well as northern Orange County, Robert De Groot from the U.S. Geological Survey said, adding the ShakeAlert early warning messages were sent out.

It was initially reported as magnitude-4.7 with the quake's depth being 9km.

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At least two aftershocks of about 2.1 intensity were felt in the area, according to NBC4 Meteorologist David Biggar.

The temblor was strongly felt by residents in the East Los Angeles neighborhood of El Sereno.

"It was like a hit, like a hard jolt," El Sereno resident Lorrie Munoz said. "I honestly thought our wall was going to fall over."

The Los Angeles Police Department urged people to be prepared for aftershocks.

The widely felt 4.4-magnitude earthquake in Highland Park disrupted the first day of school for LAUSD students. Anastassia Olmos reports for the NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024.

Emergency preparedness

In wake of the earthquake, which was felt as far south as San Diego, had quake experts remind the public to be prepared in case a disaster occurs.

Jeff Edelstein, owner of SOS Survival Products, said there are several essential items people will want to have in their emergency kit.

"Water; At least a three-day to two-week supply of water, food," Edelstein advised. "Whether it's canned food or food bars. Some first aid supplies. Lighting is extremely important; flashlights, lanterns, batteries."

Edelstein's store has a number of emergency kits, including an "under-the-bed kit" that was inspired by the 1994 Northridge earthquake.

"It happened at 4:31 in the morning," he recalled. "A lot of injuries where people were getting up, running through their house, stepping on broken glass."

He said emergency kits don't need to be extravagant, but they should be up to date.

Elizabeth Chavolla
This bag includes scissors, bandages, gauze, insurance cards, cut and rash creams, antiseptic cream, antihistamine tablets, cough syrup, alcohol towels, eye drops and distilled water.
Elizabeth Chavolla
Perhaps the most important tool in an emergency situation is the whistle, as this will help rescue teams find you.
American Red Cross
It is important that each member of your family has their own backpack. Each backpack should include everything that is mentioned on this list. Seniors, babies and pets must have their own backpack. If you have a pet, prepare a backpack with food and toys.
Elizabeth Chavolla
The poncho will keep you dry and protect you from rain. Also have a change of thermal clothing.
Elizabeth Chavolla
In a plastic bag, put soap, toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, cotton, cleaning towels, lotion, disposable tissues, razors and feminine towels.
ElizabethChavolla
These lenses are used for protecting your eyes from dust and other hazards.
Elizabeth Chavolla
In a plastic bag include a copy of your identification, license, passport and social security.
Elizabeth Chavolla
One gallon of water per person is recommended, so that you have water for at least 3 to 5 days.
Elizabeth Chavolla
Be sure to pack one or two chargers for your phone, as well as portable chargers that can be pre-charged and ready to use while on the go.
Elizabeth Chavolla
All food you keep must be food that is not perishable. Do not forget to include a can opener.
Elizabeth Chavolla
It is important to have a flashlight in your emergency backpack, but also in every room of your home, given that a natural disaster can occur at any time. Make sure you have enough batteries.
Elizabeth Chavolla
It is important to have a self-charging radio and to have batteries for it. You can buy a radio combo, which includes flashlight, radio and phone charger.
Elizabeth Chavolla
These elements are necessary to close the gas supply in your home.
Elizabeth Chavolla
If you have a medical history, include a list of your medicines and have enough doses for one week.
Elizabeth Chavolla
Keep cash in your bag. In case of a major emergency, there will be no access to banks or ATMs.
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