Kern County, CA — On the evening of August 6, 2024, Kern County was struck by a magnitude 5.2 earthquake around 10:00 p.m., leading to significant traffic disruptions and a coordinated emergency response.
Severe Traffic Disruptions on I-5 South
The earthquake caused substantial damage to local infrastructure, particularly affecting traffic on Interstate 5 South. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) in Bakersfield reported that several lanes of I-5, south of Grapevine Road, have been obstructed by a large boulder that fell onto the middle lanes. This obstruction has resulted in severe delays for southbound traffic. Crews are currently working to remove the debris and assess the road’s structural integrity, with continued delays expected.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Updates
By 11:45 p.m. on August 6, Kern County Fire’s Public Information Officer, Jon Drucker, addressed the media concerning the earthquake’s impact. According to Drucker, there were no immediate reports of structural damage or injuries in the affected areas. Emergency crews are prepared for potential aftershocks, and a 3.5 magnitude aftershock was reported at 11:52 p.m., which was briefly captured on camera during Drucker’s live update (07:49 mark of the video).
Hazmat Incident at Commercial Facility
Earlier that evening, around 9:12 p.m., a fire alarm triggered at 31452 Old River Road led to a Hazmat incident response. Reports of an ammonia smell prompted the evacuation of the facility. Firefighters, equipped with protective gear, conducted a thorough search but found no signs of an ammonia leak or other hazardous materials. No injuries were reported during this incident.
Coordinated Response Efforts
The Bakersfield CHP and Kern County Fire Department are spearheading the response efforts. Kern County Fire PIO Jon Drucker remains available for updates as the situation evolves.
Residents are advised to stay informed through local news sources and adhere to guidance from emergency services to ensure their safety. The community is also encouraged to exercise caution as aftershocks may continue to impact the region.