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In a separate report, a strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7 struck off the northern California coast on Thursday morning, leading to an unusual tsunami warning for both northern California and southern Oregon. The earthquake occurred at 10:44 a.m., approximately 45 miles southwest of Eureka, in waters that are about eight miles deep. The National Tsunami Warning Center issued the alert, which prompted immediate evacuations along the coast, affecting areas from Brookings and Gold Beach up to Bandon, Port Orford, and north of Reedsport in Oregon.
This warning marked the first instance since 2022 when a West Coast tsunami warning was issued following an earthquake in Tonga. Dave Snider from the warning center advised that tsunami waves measured around 3.5 inches near Arena Cove, which, although minimal, can still cause significant disruptions in harbor areas. Fortunately, there have been no reports of damage following the event.
Emergency management officials quickly reacted, especially in Brookings, where law enforcement began evacuating residents near the shore to higher ground. In Curry County, emergency manager Jeff Hughes activated warning sirens and issued a countywide evacuation order, highlighting the importance of preparedness among coastal residents. He noted that while not everyone might have heeded the warnings, it reveals the necessity for individuals in coastal areas to be ready for unforeseen circumstances.
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department responded to the warning by closing state park beaches, while nearby Lane County sent notifications for residents to consider seeking higher ground as a precaution. Devon Ashbridge, a public information officer for Lane County, confirmed the alert’s reach to over 22,000 contacts, reminding citizens of the potential risks associated with living near coastal areas.
While the situation eventually did not result in a tsunami, the event underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness among coastal communities. Overall, while the earthquake presented a potential threat, the quick response from local authorities and the absence of damage is a testament to the effective emergency management practices in place.
This occurrence serves as a powerful reminder for individuals living near coastlines to be proactive and prepared for any future incidents that may arise, enhancing overall community resilience.