There has been an increase in earthquake activity lately, causing worry across California. The types of earthquakes that typically strike southern California are called shallow fault earthquakes and strike-slip earthquakes.

Shallow fault earthquakes occur when 2 tectonic plates collide with each other. Some of these faults are visible while others are underground.

Strike-slip faults are earthquakes where 2 faults move parallel to each other. These earthquakes are what make up the San Andreas fault and the fault that in 2019 caused the 6.4 and 7.1 Ridgecrest earthquakes.

So, what is causing these unanticipated, major earthquakes throughout the Golden State?

Some speculate that a specific earthquake, also known as “the big one”, may be coming to strike California. Seismologists have also stated that earthquakes with a magnitude of 4 or greater have been on the rise in recent months. This does not include the earthquakes that are weaker than 4.0 as there are still numerous earthquakes that are weaker than a magnitude of 4.

Dr. Lucy Jones, a seismologist, stated, “2024 has had more earthquakes than any year we’ve seen since 1988.”

It is estimated that there have been 13 earthquakes greater than magnitude 4.0 that have struck the entirety of California.

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Recent earthquakes have included:

Barstow, CA, 4.9 Magnitude earthquake – 1:00 PM – July 29th

Bakersfield, CA, 5.2 Magnitude earthquake – 9:09 PM – August 6th

2 Bakersfield aftershocks of 4.6 and 4.1 just minutes after the main 5.2 earthquake.

Pasadena, CA – 4.4  Magnitude earthquake – 12:20 PM – August 12th

Ontario, CA – 3.9 Magnitude earthquake – 10:34 AM – September 7th

Malibu, CA – 4.7 Magnitude earthquake – 7:28 AM – September 12th

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In case there is a large-scale earthquake that could cause massive damage throughout the state, it is recommended to stock up on water, nonperishable foods, medical supplies, and to have a battery powered or hand crank radio as well as a portable charger for your phones to be prepared.