Magnitude 5.4 Earthquake rocks Los Angeles

Tuesday, July 29, 2008



Updated 2:30pm CT: The earthquake has been been downgraded to a 5.4 earthquake. There have been 26 aftershocks within 48 minutes.

A magnitude-5.8 earthquake has struck just east of Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake's epicenter was about 2 miles southwest of Chino Hills and about 5 miles southeast of Diamond Bar, the USGS said. The center was about 7.6 miles (12 km) deep. A 5.8 magnitude quake is considered by the USGS to be "moderate," which can cause slight damage to buildings and other structures.

Ten aftershocks hit within 12 minutes of the earthquake. The tremor lasted for about 30 seconds. People closer to the epicenter say that there is no phone service. There have been several strong aftershocks.

The USGS is stating that several aftershocks have been high as 3.8 magnitude. Just about 10 minutes ago.

The White House is monitoring the situation. President Bush is expected to speak about the earthquake within the next 30 minutes.

The earthquake has been felt as far away as Las Vegas, Nevada.

The earthquake had knocked out a ground radar system at LAX (Los Angelese Airport).



Click here to view a map of recent earthquake activity.

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