A significant 5.1 magnitude earthquake rattled Southern California on Monday evening, sending a sharp tremor through the region and prompting immediate emergency alerts to residents' mobile phones.
Details of the Seismic Event
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the quake struck at 5:56 pm local time. Its epicentre was located roughly five miles northeast of Indio Hills, directly on the notorious San Andreas Fault. Notably, the seismic activity was classified as 'shallow', occurring at a depth of just two miles beneath the surface, which can amplify the feeling of shaking.
Immediate Public Reaction and Safety Alerts
Residents across the affected area received a stark emergency notification on their devices from the USGS ShakeAlert system. The message read: 'Earthquake Detected! Drop, Cover, Hold On. Protect Yourself.' Many locals swiftly turned to social media to share their experiences and gauge the tremor's reach.
One user on X, formerly Twitter, stated, 'We just had quite a jolt,' while another vividly described the force, writing the quake 'shook the c*** out of us.' Reports of the shaking came from various locations, with one person in Orange feeling her apartment building sway. Another user characterised it as a 'good shaker in the desert.' Authorities have warned that aftershocks are a possibility following the initial event.
Official Safety Guidance During an Earthquake
Seismic experts and officials consistently emphasise that knowing how to react in the moment is critical for personal safety. The recommended action is to Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
Wherever you are, immediately drop down onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked over and allows you to crawl to shelter. Cover your head and neck with your arms and seek shelter under a sturdy table or desk if one is nearby. Hold on to this shelter until the shaking stops.
For those using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, the advice is to lock the wheels and remain seated, bending over and covering your head and neck until the tremor ceases.
If no sturdy furniture is within reach, crawl to an interior wall away from windows, which can shatter. Avoid doorways, as they are not generally stronger than other parts of a modern house and do not offer protection from falling or flying objects.
