![4.4 earthquake hits LA](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/ac67b35f77354714c985944f048c2d248ca5fca4/0_221_3840_2304/master/3840.jpg?width=1140&dpr=2&s=none)
A magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck the city of Los Angeles and the wider southern California region on Monday afternoon, rattling nerves and swaying buildings, but with no major damage or injuries immediately reported.
The quake’s epicenter was in Highland Park, a populous neighborhood in east Los Angeles located about six miles from the the city’s downtown, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).
It was first reported as a magnitude 4.6 and later downgraded by the USGS. It was at a depth of just 7.5 miles (12.1km) below the surface. The Los Angeles police department warned residents to be prepared for aftershocks.
“There are currently no initial reports of structural damage or injuries,” said the Los Angeles fire department, which had gone into “earthquake mode”.
People reported feeling strong shaking across the Los Angeles area. A medical building shook and residents said glasses and dishes rattled in many places.