Earthquake California 1994

Northridge Earthquake: A Devastating Event in California's History

The Costliest American Earthquake of the 20th Century

January 17, 1994

On January 17, 1994, a devastating earthquake struck Los Angeles, California. The magnitude 6.7 Northridge earthquake was the most costly American earthquake since the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The quake caused widespread damage throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area, including the collapse of several buildings and the destruction of countless homes.

The Northridge earthquake was centered under the community of Northridge in the San Fernando Valley. The quake occurred at 4:31 a.m., and it lasted for approximately 10 seconds. The shaking was felt throughout Southern California, and it caused damage as far away as Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Northridge earthquake caused an estimated $20 billion in damage. The quake destroyed over 12,000 homes and apartments, and it left more than 50,000 people homeless. The quake also caused significant damage to businesses and infrastructure. The Northridge earthquake was a major disaster, but it also led to important advances in earthquake preparedness and response.