Cal EMA advises additional quakes possible for Southern California counties

SACRAMENTO — The California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA) advises that, for the next 24 hours, continued seismic activity may occur in the areas affected by the “swarm” of earthquakes that shook the City of Brawley in Imperial County, measuring as high as 5.5 magnitude at 12:31 p.m. Aug. 26.

Scientist from California Geological Survey, U.S. Geological Survey, Cal Tech and the Southern California Earthquake Center believe the activity could involve an earthquake as large as, or larger than, today’s earthquake — and could cause damage to older structures.

Additionally, residents of Imperial, San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego counties may feel additional earthquakes. Seismic swarms of this nature can continue, although diminish in magnitude and frequency, over the next several weeks.

“Cal EMA has been, and will continue to be, in close coordination with local authorities to provide assistance and provide timely information regarding the potential ongoing impacts of this event” said Secretary Mark Ghilarducci. “Today’s event serves as a reminder to all Californians that an earthquake can strike at any time. Take time now to prepare your family with emergency supplies and a practiced family emergency plan”.

Cal EMA also reminds residents to take the following actions during an earthquake:
If indoors, stay there. Practice “Drop, Cover, Hold On” by getting under a table or in a corner.

If outdoors, get into an open area away from trees, building, walls and power lines.

If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid stopping under overpasses and power lines. Stay inside the car until the shaking is over.

If in a high-rise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Practice “Drop, Cover, Hold On.” Get under a table or desk. Do not use elevators.

If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the doors. Move away from the shelves containing objects that could fall.