Schwarzenegger signed the proclamation while visiting the focus of the quake damage, the small central California town of Paso Robles where a 116-year-old building was shaken to the ground killing two women.

The Republican governor and former movie star said more than 50 people were now reported injured in the severe quake, while 40 buildings were damaged over a five-block radius and that power was cut to 100,000 people.

The emergency declaration allows state resources to be unblocked to pay for rescue and rebuilding work in the stricken area.

"At 11am yesterday, this was an American main street alive with energy, a place where people came together to make this a vibrant centre of commerce and community," Schwarzenegger told reporters and local residents.

"Today this is a site of devastation. But we will come together once again as Californians and as neighbours, we will rebuild the town square, we will restore the energy.

"These buildings may have crumbled under the quake, but I know for sure that the people will not buckle so easily. This will be your main street once again."

Schwarzenegger, who took power in the most populous but disaster wracked US state on November 17, offered his "heartfelt thanks" to rescue workers who are sifting through rubble and checking buildings for safety.

He noted that while 100,000 people in the area, that lies exactly between Los Angeles and San Francisco, had lost their power following the quake, half of them had their electricity restored by nightfall.

"We have already begun the task of recovery and rebuilding," the governor said.

TERRA.WIRE