Millions of Californians preparing to stage earthquake drill

Millions in California are preparing to take part in a mass earthquake drill to simulate their response to the Big One, the long-feared major temblor expected to one day hit the US West Coast state.

At exactly 10:21 am (1701 GMT) on Thursday, October 21, 7.8 million of locals have signed up online for Thursday's drill, so they will dive to the ground, climb under desks or other cover, and hold on tight to practice the so-called "Drop, Cover, Hold On" quake response mantra. Thousands of schools, businesses and other organizations are expected to participate.

"The Great California ShakeOut" is an annual event to keep people aware of the ever-present danger of the Big One, which seismologists warn could kill hundreds, if not thousands of people.

Earthquakes are regular events in California, mostly triggered by activity along the San Andreas fault which runs through much of the western state, the most populous in the United States. Geologists estimate an earthquake capable of causing widespread destruction is 99 percent certain of hitting California within the next 30 years.