A shallow magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck the Los Angeles area Friday night, causing minor damage, power outages, and gas leaks.
The earthquake occurred at 9:09 p.m at a depth of 4.6 miles and was centered near Brea in Orange County – about 20 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. It was immediately followed by several aftershocks, including a 3.4 and 3.6 magnitude tremor.
The earthquake was widley felt from northern San Diego COunty to Ventura County, and residents said shaking was felt for about 10 seconds. The larger quake followed a 3.6 magnitude foreshock that occurred in the same area an hour earlier.
Residents in Orange County shared photos of minor home damage, included cracked walls and broken dishes. Water mains were also damaged in nearby streets as fire departments in Fullerton were forced to evacuate due to structural damage.
It was also reported that minor gas leaks affected several communities in La Habra, Fullerton and La Mirada.
According to The Los Angeles Times, scientists are particularly concerned about the Puente Hills thrust fault because it runs directly underneath downtown Los Angeles.
Did you feel the earthquake? Leave us a comment below and let us know about your experience!
