California Earthquake: Magnitude 7.1 Hits Ridgecrest

Breaking News from the Mojave Desert

July 5, 2019

Ridgecrest, California was struck by a magnitude 7.1 earthquake on Friday, July 5, 2019. The earthquake, which occurred at 8:19 p.m. PDT, had a depth of 8 kilometers and was felt throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake was the largest to hit the region in 20 years. It was followed by a series of aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.4 earthquake that struck about 30 minutes later.

There were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries, but the earthquake caused widespread power outages and disrupted transportation in the region. The earthquake was also felt in Nevada, Arizona, and Mexico.

Geologists are still studying the earthquake, but they believe that it was caused by a strike-slip fault in the North American Plate. The fault is located near the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, and it is known to produce large earthquakes.

The earthquake is a reminder of the seismic hazard that exists in California. The state is home to several major faults, and it is important for residents to be prepared for earthquakes.