“Massive Earthquake Rocks San Diego – Residents Share Their Dramatic Accounts”
A powerful earthquake shook San Diego on Monday night at 10 p.m., leaving locals in shock as they witnessed the ground tremble beneath them. According to the US Geological Survey, the magnitude of the quake was 5.2, similar to the one that devastated Myanmar, and its impact was felt far and wide.
Centered just a few miles (4 kilometers) from the small mountain town of Julian, with a population of around 1,500, the quake’s tremors reached as far as Los Angeles, some 120 miles away. While the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department reported no immediate damage or injuries, the sudden jolt still left residents shaken.
What set this earthquake apart from others was the early warning residents received just seconds before the tremors struck.
“I’ve never gotten a text alert before an earthquake. It came in 5 seconds before my apartment started swaying,” shared Marty Caswell, a San Diego resident, on X.
Another user posted the exact warning: “Earthquake detected! Drop, Cover, Hold On. Protect Yourself,” alerting people just moments before the violent shake hit.
For many, it was a first-time experience. “This was the biggest earthquake I’ve felt since moving to San Diego,” one resident shared.
One person recounted, “I’ve never experienced an earthquake before, but having lived around sinkholes, I grabbed my son and ran for the door in my boxers. Heart racing!”
After the initial tremor, several aftershocks followed, including one registering a magnitude of 3.9.
The California Department of Transportation also issued warnings of potential dangers, sharing images of large boulders that had fallen onto State Route 76, just east of E Grade Road.
Governor Gavin Newsom was promptly briefed on the event and assured the public that state officials are working closely with local authorities to assess any damage and determine if emergency responses are necessary.