A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck near Julian, a historic town in Southern California, on April 14, 2025. Centered just south of the town, the tremor was felt across a wide area, including parts of Los Angeles. Julian, known for its gold rush history and mountain charm, lies in the seismically active Cuyamaca region. — This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.

April 14, 2025 | Southern California – A magnitude 5.2 earthquake shook wide swaths of Southern California on Monday morning, startling residents from San Diego to Los Angeles and prompting fresh attention to regional earthquake readiness. The epicenter was located 2.5 miles south of Julian, a mountain town in eastern San Diego County, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The temblor struck at 10:08 a.m., with a shallow depth of less than 10 kilometers, amplifying surface-level shaking. It was followed by at least eight aftershocks, the largest of which registered magnitude 4.0.

WIDELY FELT, LIMITED DAMAGE

The earthquake was felt across San Diego, Riverside, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino counties. Reports of shaking came from inland communities such as Temecula, Ramona, and Claremont, and reached coastal cities including Seal Beach, Long Beach, and Monterey Park.

Although there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant structural damage, several areas experienced brief power flickers, items falling from shelves, and precautionary evacuations in schools and offices. Transportation agencies temporarily halted train services for safety inspections.

ON THE ELSINORE FAULT

According to the USGS, the quake occurred near the Elsinore Fault, a major fault zone in Southern California capable of generating large earthquakes. The fault is part of the broader San Andreas Fault system, and experts have long warned of its potential for future seismic events.

Dr. Lucy Jones, renowned seismologist and earthquake expert, emphasized that Monday’s earthquake is a reminder of California’s ongoing seismic activity. She reiterated her long-standing message that “seismic quiet” should not be mistaken for safety, and that preparedness remains key.

EARLY WARNINGS AND STATE RESPONSE

The ShakeAlert early warning system triggered successfully, sending mobile alerts seconds before the shaking began in some areas. Residents praised the few seconds of lead time, which allowed many to duck under tables or brace themselves.

California’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) confirmed that local emergency officials conducted safety checks across affected counties. While no major emergencies were declared, authorities urged vigilance.

In an official advisory, Cal OES reminded residents that while this event was not the so-called “Big One,” it is an opportunity to reinforce household emergency plans and refresh disaster supplies.

ANIMAL RESPONSES AND ONLINE REACTIONS

At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, animal staff noted behavioral changes among some animals, although no injuries occurred. Visitors reported seeing large mammals group together during the shaking, which staff described as normal protective behavior.

On social media, the quake quickly trended with hashtags like #JulianQuake and #CaliforniaEarthquake, with residents sharing reactions, preparedness tips, and reminders to secure heavy household objects.

STAY PREPARED

Emergency management officials are urging Californians to: