BREAKING: 5.2 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Southern California — Kim Kardashian and Children Evacuate in Panic
Los Angeles, CA — A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck near San Diego just 30 minutes ago, shaking large portions of Southern California including Los Angeles and Orange Counties. The sudden tremor sent shockwaves through the region and forced numerous residents to flee their homes, including media personality Kim Kardashian and her children.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake’s epicenter was located about 12 miles northeast of San Diego, at a shallow depth of approximately 7.8 miles. Although brief, the tremor was strong enough to rattle buildings, knock items off shelves, and trigger automatic safety responses in some areas. No tsunami warning has been issued.
Kim Kardashian Speaks Out: “Everything Happened So Fast”
Shortly after the quake, Kim Kardashian took to social media in a visibly shaken state, sharing a short video and a message with her 364 million followers on Instagram. “Everything happened so fast, I couldn’t think straight,” she wrote. “The walls started shaking, and I just grabbed the kids and ran outside.”
Kardashian, who lives in Hidden Hills, northwest of Los Angeles, said she was at home with her four children—North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm—when the quake hit. She described hearing what sounded like “a rumble followed by a jolt,” and said that decorative items in her hallway fell to the ground.
“It was the scariest thing I’ve felt in a long time,” she said. “We’re okay, just a little shaken. Thank you to everyone who’s reached out. Hug your loved ones extra tight tonight.”
Celebrities and Locals React
Several other Southern California residents took to social media to share their experiences. Actress Reese Witherspoon tweeted, “That was not a small one — hope everyone’s safe!” Meanwhile, residents in high-rise buildings in downtown Los Angeles and along the coast reported feeling the quake sway their homes for several seconds.
Emergency services across the affected counties confirmed they have received dozens of calls reporting minor injuries, power outages, and property damage. However, no fatalities or major structural collapses have been reported as of this writing.
Earthquake Preparedness Renewed
Experts warn that while this quake was significant, it could be a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to much stronger seismic events.
“This was a wake-up call,” said Dr. Marissa Chang, a seismologist at Caltech. “A 5.2 magnitude quake is not catastrophic, but it’s enough to cause damage and certainly enough to remind us that we live in earthquake country. Everyone should make sure their emergency kits are up to date and that their families know evacuation procedures.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement urging calm and asking residents to report any structural damage to local authorities. He also reminded the public to avoid elevators for the next several hours, as aftershocks are still possible.
Aftershocks Expected
The USGS warned that smaller aftershocks are likely to follow in the coming hours and days. Residents are advised to be cautious and stay informed through official emergency channels.
As for Kim Kardashian and her family, a spokesperson has confirmed they are safe and spending the night at a relative’s home in Calabasas while their property is inspected for damage.
More updates will follow as this story develops. Stay safe, California.