Small earthquake strikes in mountains above Coachella Valley

PALM SPRINGS — A magnitude 3.5 earthquake was reported near Alpine Village, California in the mountains above the Coachella Valley at 5:31 a.m. on Monday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The quake was centered 16.6 miles south of Palm Desert and 17.6 miles south of Rancho Mirage. It was about a mile deep. There were no reports of injuries or damage.

Monday morning's earthquake follows two quakes in the Northern California region that occurred within the past 12 days. Friday's earthquake hit at around 6:38 p.m. local time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, just as sunset was approaching.

A magnitude 4.2 earthquake rattled millions of residents in the region on Oct. 18, prompting an unexpected "ShakeAlert" on mobile devices.

Are earthquakes happening more?What to know if you're worried and how to stay safe.

Earthquakes in California

According to the California Earthquake Authority, there are over 500 active faults in California. The CEA said most residents live within 30 miles of an active fault line.

Each year California is struck by about two or three earthquakes that are large enough to cause moderate damage to structures — with magnitudes of 5.5 and higher.

Within the U.S., Alaska records more earthquakes per year than California.

What should you do during an earthquake?

Actual shaking rarely causes injury. Injuries and death occur when walls and roofs collapse and glass and other objects fly or fall, especially when people try to move during the shaking, according to ShakeOut. No matter where you are, don't move if you can avoid it until you're sure it's safe.

When the shaking starts, ShakeOut advises the following:

◾ If you are inside a building, move no more than a few steps, drop to the ground, take cover by getting under a sturdy desk or table and hold on to it until the shaking stops.

◾ If outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines, then drop, cover and hold on and stay until the shaking stops.

◾ If driving, pull over to a clear location, stop and keep your seat belt fastened. Once the shaking stops, proceed with caution, avoiding damage that might have occurred.

What causes an earthquake?Here are the different types of earthquakes, and why they occur

The Palm Springs Desert Sun contributed to this reporting.