**Southern California Shaken by Series of Earthquakes** Southern California experienced a swarm of nearly 20 earthquakes overnight, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The largest earthquake, with a magnitude of 4.8, struck in Imperial County near the California-Mexico border at 10:18 p.m. Thursday. The earthquake was felt in San Diego, El Centro, and as far north as Los Angeles. Another 4.8-magnitude earthquake was reported at 12:33 a.m. Friday, 3 kilometers north-northwest of El Centro. A preliminary 4.8-magnitude earthquake also struck off the coast of northern California near Ocotillo. The USGS earthquake tracker shows that the first earthquake occurred at 9:29 p.m. Thursday, and the swarm continued throughout the night. Most of the earthquakes were centered around the Imperial Valley and the Mojave Desert. There have been no reports of any major damage or injuries from the earthquakes. However, residents in the affected areas are being advised to be prepared for aftershocks. The USGS recommends that people in earthquake-prone areas take the following precautions: * Have a plan for what to do in an earthquake. * Keep an emergency kit with food, water, first aid supplies, and other essential items. * Secure heavy objects in your home, such as bookcases and appliances. * Stay away from windows and other potential hazards during an earthquake. If you feel an earthquake, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
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