**Breaking News: Major Earthquake Strikes Southern California**
**Magnitude 7.2 Quake Causes Widespread Damage and Casualties**
**Emergency Services Respond as Residents Evacuate**
Los Angeles, California – A major earthquake has struck Southern California tonight, causing widespread damage and multiple casualties. The quake, with a magnitude of 7.2, occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. PST, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The epicenter of the quake was located in the San Andreas Fault Zone, approximately 50 miles east of Los Angeles. The earthquake was felt across a wide area of Southern California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Riverside counties.
Preliminary reports indicate significant damage to buildings and infrastructure across the region. Multiple buildings have collapsed, and power outages are affecting thousands of residents. Emergency services are responding to a large number of reports of injuries and trapped individuals.
Authorities are urging residents to evacuate damaged buildings and stay away from affected areas. The California Highway Patrol has closed several major freeways in the area due to damage.
Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for Southern California. The National Guard has been activated to assist with search and rescue efforts.
The quake is the largest to hit Southern California in decades. It comes after a series of smaller earthquakes in the region in recent weeks. Geologists are monitoring the situation closely and warn of the possibility of aftershocks.
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