Earthquake strikes off California coast

A strong earthquake struck off the coast of northern California, just hours after a moderate quake shook most of southern California. Neither caused serious damage or injuries.

A 6.4-magnitude temblor hit about 125 miles west of Eureka at about 11.30pm yesterday (7.30am Irish time today). Earlier in the day, a 4.9-magnitude quake struck east of Los Angeles, rattling homes.

Four significant quakes have hit California this week: A magnitude-5.2 quake shook Riverside County on Sunday, and a magnitude-7.2 quake struck on Tuesday under the ocean 90 miles off northern California.

Stephanie Hanna of the US Geological Survey, said last night’s quake was likely an aftershock from Tuesday’s event.