BEVERLY HILLS—On July 7, a 5.4 tremor occurred at about 4:53 p.m., throughout Southern California, with a strong intensity at its epicenter.

The small tremor occurred 30 miles south of Palm Springs, 25 miles south of Indio and 13 miles north-northwest of Borrego Springs, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.  It also affected parts of Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, and was followed by more than 60 aftershocks measuring at 1.3 and greater during the first hour.  Seismologists are anticipating more aftershocks.

The U.S.G.S. website offers tips on safety measures and preparation in the event of future earthquakes that may hit Southern California in the near future.  Information on what to do before, during and after an earthquake is available at the website, including “Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety,” at http://www.earthquakecountry.info/roots/seven_steps.html.

For more information, please visit http://earthquake.usgs.gov/prepare/.