Damage assessments are underway following a second powerful earthquake in Southern California. No deaths and no major damage is being reported after a 7.1 earthquake hit the region last night. It was the second major quake to hit the town of Ridgecrest, located in the Mojave Desert, in as many days. California Governor Gavin Newsom talked to the White House and asked for a presidential emergency declaration for support and direct federal assistance. There are reports of fires, mostly as a result of gas leaks.
A day after a large earthquake, residents in Ridgecrest continue to pick up the pieces. At least four structures burned. Fire officials haven't determined the exact causes. Many other homes have enough damage to force people into a temporary shelter says Roy Vargas with the Red Cross. He says many people in the shelter are waiting to see if it's safe to go home.
Officials in Southern California officials say they are "ahead of the curve" as first responders assess the damage from last night's 7.1 earthquake. Kern County Fire Department Chief David Witt says there is no loss of life or any major damage from the Kern County-Ridgecrest quake. Witt adds there are no major collapses and no one is trapped in any rubble at this time. It's the second major quake to hit the area withing 24 hours.
President Trump is following developments in Southern California. The White House says Trump is being kept up-to-date on the latest 7.1 quake by several teams. The President and the First Lady are staying at Trump's Bedminister golf course in New Jersey for the holiday weekend. A state of emergency is in effect in Ridegcrest, California and San Bernardino County as seismologists say more aftershocks are expected.
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