President Trump approves emergency declaration to assist with earthquake recovery efforts

RIDGECREST, Calif. — President Donald Trump has approved a federal declaration of emergency to assist California after the massive earthquakes in the Ridgecrest area.

The declaration allows federal agencies like FEMA and Homeland Security to coordinate disaster relief efforts and provide other assistance targeted to the San Bernardino and Kern county areas.

Trump has been in contact with Gov. Gavin Newsom and other California officials after the 7.1 earthquake struck Ridgecrest last week. The quake has been followed by thousands of smaller aftershocks.

Trump tweeted: "Spoke to @GOPLeader Kevin McCarthy about the earthquakes in California and informed him that we will be working very closely on emergency funding. Also spoke to Governor @GavinNewsom - all working together!