Magnitude 4.6 earthquake hits Southern California

An earthquake several miles northwest of Malibu, California, rattled residents in the Los Angeles area on Friday, prompting a typical outpouring of social media posts, though authorities said there was no major damage or injuries reported.

The earthquake had a preliminary magnitude of 4.6according to the United States Geological Survey.

Residents across the province reported feeling a vibration that lasted about 10 seconds, with dishes in cupboards rattling and plants swaying slightly.

However, some residents were surprised to hear about the earthquake and said they felt nothing.

“We have received a few calls, but no structural damage has been reported at this time,” said Los Angeles County Fire Department spokeswoman Kaitlyn Aldana.

No significant damage was reported in the city of Los Angeles, according to Erik Scott, a spokesman for the Los Angeles Fire Department. Mr Scott said the agency was in what it called “earthquake mode”.

“When the ground shakes in the city of LA, the LAFD goes into this mode and provides firefighters from all 106 fire stations with a complete overview of 470 square miles in the greater Los Angeles area to ensure safety,” he said.

Schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District sent automated calls reporting that students had remained in their classrooms.

This is a development story. Check back for updates.