On Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 8:17 p.m. Pacific Time, a magnitude 3.9 earthquake struck approximately 7 miles northwest of Malibu, California, at a depth of about 8.5 miles (14 kilometers). The tremor was felt across parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, including areas like Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks. There were no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries.
This event adds to a series of recent seismic activities in the region. Earlier this month, another earthquake rattled the Malibu area, marking the fourth such occurrence in March.
Additionally, in September 2024, a 4.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Malibu, though it also resulted in no major damage.
Malibu’s proximity to several active faults, including the Raymond Fault, contributes to its susceptibility to earthquakes. The Raymond Fault extends from the San Gabriel Mountains through various parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, influencing the region’s seismic activity.
Experts highlight the importance of earthquake preparedness in California, given the state’s location along the seismically active San Andreas Fault. The probability of a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake occurring in the next 30 years is estimated at 99.7%.