13 years since Easter earthquake
IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - 13 years ago Imperial County felt a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that damaged several buildings, some even crumbling to the ground in Downtown Calexico.
The epicenter of the Easter Sunday earthquake was in Guadalupe Victoria, Baja California which is very close to Mexicali.
That was the city that saw the most damage and at least two deaths along with more than 100 injuries.
But the quake was also felt in Yuma and Imperial County, and as far as San Diego County and northern Los Angeles.
"It did cause some damages in the county of Imperial, thankfully we were able to get a proclamation and support from the state and federal government that was able reimburse us for those damages," said Salvador Flores, Imperial County Fire Deputy Chief.
13 years later the Imperial County Fire Department says it feels prepared for the next big quake.
"What you are seeing here in the background right now is what we have been holding for two weeks. We have been holding training that not only supports our staff but also supports city staff and special districts as well. They have been attending these training to prepare themselves for those situations," continued Flores.
The Imperial Irrigation District says since the earthquake there has been many changes.
“Some improvements... is communication... so what we want to do is communicate more with our customers... so please follow us on social media,” said Robert Schreiter.
The IID also says resident need to be prepared for the next shake.
“We do live in a earthquake zone... we never know when something is going to happen so have water available... have flashlights and extra batteries a transit to radio that doesn’t need electricity,” said Robert Schreiter.
