In brief
A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck the San Diego area on Monday afternoon, with the epicenter located in the resort town of Julian, situated in the Cuyamaca Mountains, approximately an hour northeast of the city. The quake occurred at 10:08 local time, and initial reports indicated no significant structural damage or injuries in the aftermath.
Shortly after the earthquake, Perette Godwin, a spokeswoman for the City of San Diego, confirmed to the BBC that there were no immediate reports of harm to residents or extensive damage to property. The San Diego sheriff's office echoed this sentiment, stating that the situation was still evolving but that no urgent concerns had been raised.Following the seismic event, the California Governor's office communicated via X, revealing that Governor Gavin Newsom had been briefed on the developing scenario. The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a series of smaller aftershocks within the hour, although no tsunami threat was issued by the National Weather Service.Witnesses expressed their responses to the quake, with local resident Kevin Manaugh recounting his experience as he quickly sought shelter under a door frame upon receiving a warning alert. “It was the worst quake I’ve ever felt,” he stated, noting how the shaking lasted around three seconds but was intense. The timely notification prior to the earthquake allowed him to find safety, highlighting the critical role of emergency alerts.Although no damage was evident to his property, the earthquake served as a reminder for preparedness. “With this and the wildfires in Los Angeles, I've realized it might be wise to prepare an evacuation bag,” Manaugh added, emphasizing the importance of readiness for future seismic events.
