A powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck off the northern California coast, as reported by the US Geological Survey. Initially, a tsunami warning was issued for northern California and southern Oregon, potentially affecting around 4.7 million residents, but this alert was later lifted. The earthquake’s epicenter was near Ferndale, in Humboldt County, approximately 260 miles north of San Francisco. Fortunately, no deaths or major damage have been reported following the quake, which is notably one of only nine earthquakes of this magnitude worldwide this year.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to CBS News that while there was no extensive destruction to buildings, some minor damages were noted, including items falling from shelves in stores and short power outages affecting over 10,000 residents. A local innkeeper described her establishment as resembling a “warzone,” with cast iron fireplaces displaced and debris scattered throughout.
Witnesses recounted their experiences of the quake. One resident, Todd Dunaway, described the sensation as being on “a giant waterbed,” with the aftermath leading him and his wife to anxiously await aftershocks. Numerous aftershocks were felt following the initial quake, which occurred around 10:44 AM local time. Cities like Berkeley took precautionary measures, issuing evacuation orders for areas considered at risk of tsunami impacts.
In response to the earthquake, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a state of emergency, aiming to mobilize resources for affected communities. He emphasized the importance of being prepared for such natural events, reiterating the reality of living in a seismically active state.
Additionally, coastal communities in California are equipped with tsunami warning signs and are encouraged to be familiar with evacuation routes to ensure residents can reach higher ground quickly in case of a tsunami. Experts remind the public that seismic activity is quite common along the US West Coast, where tectonic plate interactions frequently result in tremors.
This incident serves as a reminder of the state’s vulnerability to earthquakes, but thankfully, the immediate aftermath highlights the resilience of communities and the effectiveness of emergency preparedness. It is essential that residents continue to stay informed and ready, embracing a proactive approach towards safety in the face of natural disasters.