Baja California earthquake rattles Ramona, felt countywide

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Guadalupe Victoria, Mexico, about 3:40 p.m. Easter Sunday rattled some residents’ nerves but did not result in any significant damage in San Diego County, according to preliminary reports from city and county agencies.

“Today’s earthquake reminds us of the importance of being ready for earthquakes,” said Ron Lane, Director of the County Office of Emergency Services. “We encourage families to practice the Drop, Cover and Hold On earthquake response, so that the reaction becomes second nature. Individuals and families can be better prepared for an earthquake by making certain that they have a Family Disaster Plan and emergency supplies kit at home and work.”

The earthquake was felt all across Southern California. The region continues to experience aftershocks.

American Red Cross disaster specialists in the Imperial County region are assessing the damage caused by the earthquake and continue to monitor the situation.

In Calexico, over 100 senior citizens have been vacated from their residences and have been relocated to a safe area, reports the American Red Cross San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter, which is on site providing food, water and other needed supplies. The Red Cross is making arrangements to open a shelter for those affected by the disaster.

To receive emergency information or instructions during an emergency affecting San Diego County, residents are encouraged to register their cell phones on the ReadySanDiego site for AlertSanDiego, the County’s emergency notification system.

Learn more about how to prepare for an earthquake at home and work, and download a Family Disaster Plan template by visiting www.ReadySanDiego.org and clicking on the “Family” tab. Residents can also learn more about what items to include in their emergency supplies kit and how they can secure their home by clicking on the earthquake logo and going to the “More Earthquake Info” link or the ShakeOut link.

For more information on how to be prepared in the event of a disaster, or to buy a preparedness kit, visit www.preparesandiego.org.