More than 370,000 Oregonians are expected to drop, cover and hold on to something sturdy Thursday morning for the so-called Great ShakeOut.

The worldwide earthquake drill starts at 10:16 a.m. and aims to help people prepare for such a natural disaster. Businesses, schools, citizens and state agencies throughout Oregon are scheduled to participate.

“We will focus on our state’s preparedness for a major earthquake and how we can work with businesses and community leaders to prepare organizations for a disaster,” said Dave Stuckey, director of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management.

Oregon is located in the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a 600-mile fault line stretching from British Columbia to California. Experts predict a major 9.0 earthquake or higher could strike the state within the next 50 years.

The ShakeOut provides an opportunity for individuals to practice what they would do in an earthquake. During the drill participants will drop, cover, and hold on under a desk or table for one minute just as they would do in a real earthquake.

The American Red Cross will hold the ShakeOut drill at its Portland headquarters. The organization is also sponsoring the “ShakeOut Selfie” contest. Participants can snap a shot of themselves taking part in the drill and post on Twitter and tag @RedCrossCascade using the hashtag #ShakeOutSelfie for a chance to win a free emergency kit.

While most will take part in the ShakeOut on Thursday, citizens can register now and pick a later date to fit their schedule. All registrations prior to Dec. 31 are eligible. Register for the Great ShakeOut at www.shakeout.org/oregon.