Authorities give final update of situation in aftermath of 7.1 magnitude earthquake

RIDGECREST, Calif. — Megan Person, Director of Countywide Communications for Kern County, provided an update of the situation following the 7.1 magnitude earthquake that hit the region on Friday.

Person confirmed that it was a 7.1 magnitude earthquake after some initial confusion where the USGS initially downgraded the event to a 6.9. Among the damage caused by the quake were multiple fires, possible gas leaks, collapsed buildings, and road damage. Fortunately, there were only minor injuries.

Person announced that 129 residents from Ridgecrest were sheltering at the Kerr McGee Community Center, which had a cot capacity of 200, but the ability to expand to 500 if needed. In addition, the shelter was also housing residents from the town of Trona.

Law enforcement was full staffed and received over 240 calls for service.