On May 8, 2019 at approximately 9:14 AM PST, an earthquake occurred near Imperial County, California. It was estimated to be a magnitude 3.5 and caused disruptions that could have damaged structures in the area.
The Salton City area was disturbed with light shaking during the early morning hours. The earthquake was estimated to have occurred at a depth of 7 miles with an epicenter located about 10 miles to the southwest of Salton City and 6 miles to the southwest of Ocotillo Wells.
Earthquake Impact in California
Nationwide, earthquakes cause about $4.4 billion of damage to property and crops each year. Earthquakes are often the cause of other severe damage, such as tsunamis which may lead to flood damage.
In California alone, earthquakes cause about $3.3 billion of damage to property and crops each year. The state sits along multiple active fault lines, making it one of the most seismically active regions in the country.
Each year Southern California has about 10,000 earthquakes. Most of them are so small that they are not felt. If there is a large earthquake, the aftershock sequence will produce many more earthquakes of all magnitudes for many months after the initial event.
What Property Owners Should Do After an Earthquake
Even a moderate earthquake can cause structural damage that is not immediately visible. Hairline cracks in foundations, shifted framing, and damage to mechanical systems may go unnoticed without a professional inspection. If your property is in a seismically active area and you experience shaking, it is important to have the structure evaluated by a licensed engineer to confirm its safety and document any damage for insurance purposes.
Earthquake Damage Resource provides expert earthquake damage assessment and forensic engineering guidance throughout California and nationwide. If your property has sustained earthquake damage, contact our team for a professional evaluation.