LOS ANGELES EARTHQUAKE (8/13/2024)

On August 13, 2024, Los Angeles was jolted by a significant earthquake that not only shook the city physically but also emotionally. The 4.4 magnitude earthquake, which struck the densely populated region near Highland Park, serves as a stark reminder of the seismic risks that Angelenos live with daily. This article explores the impact of the earthquake, including damages, casualties, government actions, public reactions, and essential safety steps for residents.

Impact of the Earthquake: Damage and Casualties

The earthquake struck at approximately 12:20 PM, catching many residents off-guard during their daily routines. The tremor, which lasted about 45 seconds, was powerful enough to cause buildings to sway, triggering car alarms and sending people scrambling for safety. Initial reports indicate that the earthquake resulted in minor structural damage across various parts of the city, with several buildings in the Highland Park area sustaining cracks and minor collapses​.

Thankfully, due to the depth of the quake (approximately 7.5 miles below the surface) and the city’s stringent building codes, no major infrastructure was compromised. However, some older structures, particularly those that have not been retrofitted to withstand seismic activity, suffered more significant damage. Pasadena City Hall, for instance, saw water spilling from its upper floors due to a seismic retrofit issue, though it avoided major damage​.

Despite the severity of the shaking, there were no reported fatalities, and injuries were minimal. Emergency services reported that most injuries were minor, such as cuts and bruises from falling objects or glass. Several people were treated for shock, and a few required hospitalization for more serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Government Response

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) immediately sprang into action following the quake, conducting citywide assessments to ensure that critical infrastructure, such as bridges, highways, and hospitals, remained intact. The LAFD reported no immediate threats to public safety, although they continued to monitor the situation for aftershocks, which are common following an earthquake of this magnitude.

Mayor Karen Bass held a press conference later in the day, reassuring the public that the city is well-prepared to handle such events. “Our city has faced earthquakes before, and we will face them again. Our priority is the safety and well-being of all Angelenos. We urge everyone to stay alert and follow safety guidelines,” she stated. The mayor also emphasized the importance of community preparedness, urging residents to review their emergency plans and ensure their homes are earthquake-ready.

Public Reaction

The reaction from the public was mixed, with many expressing concern over the potential for more significant quakes in the future. Social media was flooded with posts from residents sharing their experiences, with some recalling memories of previous major quakes, such as the Northridge earthquake of 1994.

In neighborhoods like Laurel Canyon and Silver Lake, where many older homes are located, residents reported feeling the quake more intensely, leading to widespread discussions about the need for retrofitting and other protective measures. Some schools in the Los Feliz area, like John Marshall High School, evacuated students as a precaution, though no damage was reported.

How to Stay Safe During Earthquakes

Given Los Angeles’ location along major fault lines, earthquakes are an inevitable part of life. However, there are several steps residents can take to stay safe:

1. Secure Your Home: Anchor heavy furniture, appliances, and other items that could fall during a quake. Make sure your home is retrofitted if it’s an older structure.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit with water, food, medical supplies, and important documents easily accessible.
3. Create a Family Emergency Plan: Ensure all family members know what to do during and after an earthquake. Identify safe spots in each room, such as under sturdy tables, and establish a meeting point outside the home.
4. Stay Informed: Sign up for earthquake alerts and stay informed about local emergency services and protocols.
5. During the Quake: Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If you are indoors during an earthquake, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold on until the shaking stops. If you are outside, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.