On Monday at 10 PM, San Diego experienced a significant earthquake. The US Geological Survey reported a magnitude of 5.2, similar to the one that recently struck Myanmar, causing widespread destruction.
The epicenter was located just a few miles (4 kilometers) from Julian, a small mountain community with around 1,500 residents, yet the tremors were felt as far away as Los Angeles, which is 120 miles distant.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department stated that they have not received any immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Residents were given a warning about five seconds before the quake hit. Marty Caswell from San Diego shared on X, “I can’t remember ever getting a text alert before an earthquake. It came in just five seconds before my apartment started shaking.”
Another user reported receiving a warning message moments before the tremor, stating, “Earthquake detected! Drop, Cover, Hold On. Protect Yourself.”
I can’t recall ever getting a text alert before an earthquake, came in 5 seconds before apartment started swaying pic.twitter.com/MD61WmandG
— Marty Caswell (@MartyCaswell) April 14, 2025
One individual commented, “That was the largest earthquake I’ve experienced since moving to San Diego.”
Another person, who had never felt an earthquake before, recounted, “I’ve lived near sinkholes, and when it hit, I just grabbed my son and ran for the door in my boxers. My heart was racing.”
NBC aired several clips capturing the earthquake’s impact, including footage of a mother rushing to safety with her baby and a frightened cat observing the shaking of its home.
Following the initial quake, residents reported multiple aftershocks, one of which registered a magnitude of 3.9. The California Department of Transportation issued a warning about potential hazards, sharing images of large boulders that had fallen onto State Route 76, just east of E Grade Road.
Governor Gavin Newsom has been informed about the earthquake and stated, “The state is working with local authorities to evaluate any damage and determine if emergency assistance is necessary.”
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also posted on X, saying, “San Diego felt a strong earthquake centered near Julian. So far, there’s no significant visible damage to the city, and I’m in touch with local and state officials.”
