5.2 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles San Diego Region: Julian Epicenter Triggers Emergency Alerts
A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Julian, California on Monday afternoon, shaking buildings across San Diego County and triggering emergency alerts as far north as Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
The quake hit at 10:08 a.m. PDT with its epicenter in the historic gold rush town of Julian, located in the Cuyamaca Mountains about 60 miles northeast of downtown San Diego. Residents reported strong shaking that lasted several seconds, with the USGS recording multiple aftershocks in the following hour.
California Governor Gavin Newsom's office quickly responded on social media platform X, stating: "The state is coordinating with local authorities to assess any damage and if emergency response is needed." Emergency management teams were activated to evaluate potential impacts on infrastructure.
The earthquake triggered the region's emergency alert system, which reached smartphones across a 200-mile radius. Julian, known for its apple pies and historic mining district, sits near the active Elsinore Fault Zone that runs through Southern California.
While initial reports showed no major structural damage, the quake served as a reminder of California's seismic risks. San Diego County officials advised residents to:
- Check for gas leaks and structural damage
- Prepare emergency kits with 3 days of water and supplies
- Secure heavy furniture that could topple in aftershocks
- Download the MyShake earthquake early warning app
Seismologists note this was the strongest quake in the Julian area since a 4.9 magnitude event in 1980. The USGS estimates a 15% chance of aftershocks exceeding magnitude 4.0 in the coming week.