Earthquake Shakes LA
July 29, 2008
A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck downtown Los Angeles today, shaking buildings and sending workers scrambling into the streets. Estimates are that the quake lasted about 20 seconds. The US Geological Survey, which tracks seismic events, classified the tremor as a "moderate" meaning it could cause slight damage to buildings and others structures.
The earthquake was centered in the Chino Hills, about 30 miles east of the downtown area and approximately 7 miles under the surface. Deep earthquakes are generally weaker than those closer to the surface, the USGS reported. Be that as it may, however, the LA tremor was felt in nearby Orange county and as far away as San Diego.
There were no immediate reports of serious damage or injuries.