Home » TRAVEL ALERT » Earthquake In La Verne: What Travellers Near Los Angeles Should Know About The 3.5-Magnitude Quake
Published on
September 8, 2025
Evening of September 6th the travellers and locals of Pomona, Claremont, Glendora, San Dimas, Charter Oak, and La Verne, experienced travel tremors due to a mild earthquake. The core of the earthquake was 3.5 magnitude which hit at 5:11 PM PDT. Although the tremors were so mild that there were no physical injuries or damages, still in a popular tourist spot like Southern California should be concerned as many travellers comes here in huge number every day. Regardless if you go on extraordinary hikes on the hills or you go to visit the top rated attractions of Los Angeles, with proper safety steps you can make your every trip stress-free.
The Earthquake: A Close Look at What HappenedDetails from the USGS
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicentre was located slightly more than six miles north of La Verne. It had a depth of 7.7 kilometers (4.8 miles), a relatively shallow location that made the tremor more noticeable.
While quakes of this size typically don’t cause significant damage, they are often felt by people within a 10-15 mile radius, especially if they occur close to populated areas. The event occurred in the San Gabriel Valley, which, although not a stranger to seismic activity, rarely experiences powerful earthquakes.
A Calm Event for Tourists
For most tourists, this earthquake was likely a brief, subtle rumble. In fact, most people would have felt only mild shaking, similar to the feeling of a passing truck or strong winds. Many locals and visitors didn’t notice it at all, though those in the epicenter region reported hearing and feeling it. Fortunately, no structural damage or injuries were reported by authorities, and travellers were able to continue with their plans without issue.
Seismic Activity in California: What Tourists Should KnowEarthquakes Are a Natural Part of Life in California
Southern California is home to several fault lines, including the infamous San Andreas Fault. While major quakes are relatively rare, small and moderate quakes occur with surprising frequency. That’s why it’s important for anyone travelling to California—whether for a short visit or a longer stay—to be prepared for the possibility of earthquakes, especially in regions like Los Angeles, Pasadena, and surrounding foothill cities.
For tourists visiting popular destinations such as Universal Studios, the Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Observatory, understanding basic earthquake safety can make all the difference.
Seismic Risk for Tourists
California’s buildings and infrastructure are designed with earthquake resilience in mind. Local authorities, such as the USGS and Caltech, provide real-time seismic data that helps mitigate the risk to public safety. So while the risk of being caught in a significant earthquake is low, it’s still worth having an emergency plan in place. Small tremors, like the one on September 6, are an excellent reminder to stay vigilant but not alarmed.
How Tourists Can Stay Safe During EarthquakesBefore You Go: Understand the Risks
- Check the USGS Website: For the latest earthquake news, visit the USGS Earthquake page. You can access real-time data about recent events, preparedness tips, and earthquake safety resources.
- Learn Basic Safety Measures: Know what to do when an earthquake hits. “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is a simple and effective way to protect yourself during a shake.
- Avoid Areas of High Risk: Stay away from buildings that might be unstable during a quake, such as older hotels or locations near known fault lines.
Safety Tips While Travelling
If you’re visiting LA or nearby areas, keep these tips in mind:
- In Public Spaces: Drop to your hands and knees to protect yourself from falling debris. Take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- In a Car: If you’re on the road when a quake strikes, pull over safely to the side, avoiding bridges or overpasses. Remain in your vehicle until the shaking stops.
- At the Hotel: When you check in, ask about the hotel’s earthquake preparedness plan. Know where the exits are, and keep emergency supplies (like water and snacks) in your room.
Post-Earthquake: What to Do
Once the shaking stops, the most important thing is to stay calm and assess your surroundings. If you’re in a building, check for hazards like broken glass or fire hazards. If you’re on the road, watch for fallen debris or damaged roads. Most importantly, stay informed. Follow official sources like local authorities or the USGS for updates on aftershocks or other developments.
Additional Resources for Tourists in Seismically Active Areas
- Red Cross Earthquake Safety Guide: Red Cross Earthquake Safety provides comprehensive safety tips for visitors in California.
- Local Emergency Numbers: Make sure you have emergency numbers programmed in your phone—this includes police, fire, and medical services.
- USGS Earthquake Alerts: You can sign up for email or text alerts through the USGS Earthquake Notification System to stay updated during your travels.
Earthquakes Aren’t a Barrier to Your California Adventure
Even though earthquakes in Southern California aren’t that fatal, they shouldn’t disturb your itineraries. By learning of the associated dangers, taking a few necessary steps, and keeping updated, almost any visit to Los Angeles, Claremont, Glendora, Pomona, and the surrounding cities can make a great experience. The endless Southern California wonders from the entertainment capital of the world to the beautiful San Gabriel mountains offer a lot to explore. So, don’t allow a few tremors to break your travel morale.
