M 6.3 Earthquake Hits Off Southern California Coast

A strong earthquake strikes off the coast of Southern California.

A large earthquake struck at 2:36A.M. in the Pacific Ocean off Catalina Island. The quake was measured at 6.3 according to Caltech seismic anaylst Anthony Guarino.

The quake, which was centered some 163 miles southwest of Santa Catalina Island, was followed by 2 larger aftershocks of magnitude 4 or larger.

Ron Eroen from the Catalina Harbor Patrol said the quake felt like a rolling motion that lasted some 25 seconds. 

There were no early reports of damage or injuries.