Earthquake shakes Los Angeles during rush hour

Los Angeles was rocked by a magnitude 5.3 earthquake on Thursday afternoon, causing widespread panic and shaking buildings across the city.

The quake struck at 4:42 p.m. PT, with its epicenter located just 11 miles from downtown Los Angeles. The quake was felt as far away as San Diego and Las Vegas.

There were no immediate reports of serious injuries or damage, but the quake caused widespread panic and disruption.

Los Angeles Fire Department crews were dispatched to numerous reports of people trapped in elevators and minor injuries. The quake also caused power outages and damage to buildings, including the iconic Bradbury Building in downtown Los Angeles.

The quake was the strongest to hit the Los Angeles area since the 1994 Northridge earthquake, which killed 57 people and caused billions of dollars in damage.

The quake is a reminder of the potential for seismic activity in the Los Angeles area. The city is located on several major fault lines, including the San Andreas Fault, which is capable of producing earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 or greater.

Here are some tips for staying safe during an earthquake:

* Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. * Stay away from windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture. * If you are in a car, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Stay in the car and wait for the shaking to stop. * If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, and power lines. Drop to the ground and cover your head and neck with your arms.

After an earthquake, be sure to check yourself and others for injuries.

If you see any downed power lines or damaged buildings, report them to the authorities. Also, be sure to check for gas leaks and other hazards.