A powerful earthquake has hit the state of California this afternoon, causing tremors over a wide area. The origin of the quake is believed in the area of Los Angeles, but accounts of shaking have come in from as distant as kilometers away. Emergency responders are rapidly checking the situation and there no immediate indications of serious damage.

A powerful earthquake has struck California, sending people fleeing for safety. The magnitude of the quake is currently estimated at 7.0 on the Richter scale, making it one of the biggest to affect the state in recent decades. Reports are still coming in from various locations across the region, with indications of significant harm to structures.