On Thursday, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck off the Northern California coast, leading to a tsunami warning for approximately 5.3 million residents. The quake was felt widely, including in San Francisco, and prompted significant safety alerts for coastal areas urging evacuation. The U.S. Geological Survey has predicted localized yet minimal damage from this seismic event.
A significant earthquake occurred off the coast of Northern California on Thursday, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning. The quake, registering a magnitude of 7.0, took place at 10:44 a.m. west of Ferndale in Humboldt County, close to the Oregon border. The tremors were felt across a wide area, extending as far south as San Francisco. Following the earthquake, residents experienced a series of aftershocks.
In response to the seismic activity, the Bay Area Rapid Transit District suspended operations in both directions through the underwater tunnel connecting San Francisco and Oakland. Approximately 5.3 million residents in California were placed under a tsunami warning following the U.S. Geological Survey’s yellow alert, which indicated the potential for localized but minimal damage. It was estimated that over 1.3 million individuals were near enough to the epicenter to have felt the quake.
Residents in the Santa Cruz area received alerts from the National Weather Service advising them to evacuate coastal regions due to the threat of powerful waves and strong currents. The message stressed the urgency of moving to high ground or further inland, emphasizing, “Get away from coastal waters. Move to high ground or inland now. Keep away from the coast until local officials say it is safe to return.”
Northern California is situated in a seismically active region, primarily due to the movement of the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. Earthquakes are a common occurrence, and residents are generally advised to remain prepared for seismic events. Tsunami warnings are typically issued following substantial underwater earthquakes, as these can generate waves that may impact coastal communities. The National Weather Service monitors these situations closely and provides timely alerts to ensure public safety.
In summary, the powerful earthquake off Northern California serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic risks and the necessity for preparedness among residents. With millions under a tsunami warning, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging citizens to heed evacuation orders for their safety. The prompt communication and alert systems in place demonstrate the importance of rapid response to natural disasters.
Original Source: www.wsaz.com
