Los Angeles, April 29, 2025 –
A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.8 struck Southern California early Wednesday morning, causing widespread panic and structural damage across several counties.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred at 3:42 a.m. local time, with the epicenter located near Palm Springs, about 100 miles east of Los Angeles. The tremors were felt as far as San Diego, Las Vegas, and parts of Arizona.
Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to assess damages. While no fatalities have been reported yet, several minor injuries and building collapses have been confirmed in the affected areas. Local residents shared alarming footage on social media showing buildings shaking, alarms ringing, and streets trembling during the early morning hours. Authorities have urged people to stay indoors, avoid traveling unless necessary, and be prepared for possible aftershocks. California Governor Elena Martinez has declared a state of emergency and assured that relief operations are underway. “We are closely monitoring the situation and working with federal and local agencies to provide support. Public safety is our top priority,” she said in a statement.
