According to the United States Geological Survey, a moderate earthquake measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale occurred in Southern California on Tuesday.
The quake struck at 9:09 p.m. Pacific Time about 14 miles southwest of Lamont, California, according to agency data.
When seismologists review the available data, they can correct the reported magnitude of the earthquake. Additional information collected about the earthquake can also prompt USGS scientists to update the earthquake magnitude map.
Aftershocks in the region
An aftershock is usually a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same area. Aftershocks are typically small displacements along the portion of a fault that was shifting at the time of the first earthquake.
Aftershocks can occur days, weeks, or even years after the initial earthquake. These events can be as strong or even stronger than the first earthquake and can continue to affect areas that have already been damaged.