SACRAMENTO–Governor Gavin Newsom issued an emergency proclamation for neighboring San Bernardino county which was impacted by the effects of a magnitude 7.1 earthquake near Ridgecrest that has damaged critical infrastructure, homes and other structures and caused fires.
Friday night’s tremblor followed a magnitude 6.4 earthquake which struck on July 4 in Ridgecrest shortly after 10:30 a.m. The tremblor was felt by residents in Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties and Las Vegas.
“On behalf of all Californians, I offer my heartfelt support to those affected by tonight’s earthquake near Ridgecrest. The State of California will continue to offer support to aid residents in the region,” Gov. Newsom said. “Earlier this evening I formally requested a Presidential Emergency Declaration for Direct Federal Assistance to further support emergency response and recovery in impacted communities.”
The governor also activated the State Operations Center in Mather, California to its highest level and the center is working closely with state, federal and local emergency managers and first responders.
Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) will be opened her office this weekend in Bakersfield and Ridgecrest to assist families, business owners, and residents affected by the 6.4 magnitude earthquake.
“Providing up-to-date information to our residents during this critical time is of paramount importance. I’ve been monitoring and receiving updates from the Office of Emergency Services and from local elected leaders on the situation,” she said. “ It is imperative that we relay the information to constituents of California’s 16th Senate District and help connect them to mutual aid that is available from local, state, and federal agencies.”
In addition, Grove’s staff will hold mobile office hours in Ridgecrest for the convenience of those residents who’ve been affected by the 6.4 magnitude earthquake.
The last biggest quake that hit the Southern California area was 20 years ago. USGS scientists say more aftershocks will continue to rock the state, but will decrease over time.