Redlands and Loma Linda Take Part in Largest Earthquake Drill Ever

Seismic experts say there is a 99 percent chance that a magnitude 6.7 or higher will shake California in the next 30 years.

And the likelihood of an even more powerful quake -- magnitude 7.5 or greater -- in the next 30 years is 46 percent and is more likely to hit Southern California, USGS officials said.

The risk is real say organizers of the fourth annual Great California ShakeOut. Today, communities, organization and emergency service agencies across the state, including the San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands, are holding events as part of the Great California ShakeOut.

Activities will be held from 9 a.m. to noon. The morning will begin with an address by San Bernardino County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig, who will discuss earthquake safety, and Senior Curator Of Geological Sciences Kathleen Springer, who will explain the science behind the ShakeOut and how a major quake on the San Andreas Fault will affect all Southern Californians.

At 10:20 a.m., visitors will participate in the statewide stop drop, cover and hold on drill. An Earthquake Fair in the museum courtyard follows the ShakeOut drill. Museum admission is free from 9 to noon, and drill participants will receive a personal emergency preparedness kit provided by KVCR, organizers said.

“What we do now, before a big earthquake, will determine what our lives will be like afterwards,” organizers said.

The events are designed to help residents prepare for a large earthquake or natural disaster.

More than 1 million people in San Bernardino, Riverside and Imperial counties are expected to participate in the event.

The Great California ShakeOut is organized and carried out by the Earthquake Country Alliance – earthquake professionals, emergency responders, business leaders, and community activists across the state, according to ShakeOut officials.

The museum is at 2024 Orange Tree Lane off of California Street. It is usually It is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $8 for adults, $6 for military or seniors, $5 for students, and $4 child aged 5 to 12. Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free.

For information call, (909) 307-2669  or visit www.sbcountymuseum.org.