In the latest wave of seismic activity, a series of earthquakes struck near Ontario, California on Saturday morning. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the first temblor, measuring 3.9 on the Richter scale, occurred just three miles southwest of the city in San Bernardino County at 10:05 a.m. It was quickly followed by a 3.9-magnitude earthquake at 10:34 a.m. in the same area. A total of 12 aftershocks, ranging from magnitudes of 2.1 to 1.0, were reported within four miles of Ontario by 11:20 a.m.

This string of earthquakes adds to the growing seismic activity in Southern California throughout this year. Seismologists have already declared 2021 as the most seismically active year since 1988. Earlier incidents, such as a 3.5-magnitude earthquake that struck an area of Los Angeles County near Pasadena in June, and a 4.4-magnitude temblor that occurred in August, have contributed to this pattern.

Furthermore, in August, the Southland region experienced a significant 5.5-magnitude quake, with its epicenter located in the southernmost tip of Central California. Despite its origin, the tremors were felt across a much wider area, leading to widespread shaking in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Over the course of the following two days, more than 400 aftershocks, including small tremors, were recorded.

Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones, commenting on the recent earthquake swarm near Ontario, stated, "That's a pretty active sequence for this very short amount of time since the event." The continuous seismic activity has raised concerns about the stability of the region and the potential for more significant earthquakes in the future.

As residents of Southern California remain on alert, experts and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, providing vital information and guidance to ensure safety and preparedness in the face of such seismic events.