Northern California experienced a 7.0 magnitude earthquake early Thursday, prompting a tsunami warning for coastal regions of California and Oregon. Residents are advised to evacuate to higher ground due to the potential for significant tsunami waves, which may arrive in the upcoming hours and could continue to present hazards.
On Thursday morning at 10:44 a.m., a preliminary earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Northern California, approximately 61 miles west-southwest of Ferndale, Humboldt County, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). In response to the event, authorities have issued a tsunami warning for the coastal regions of California and Oregon, encompassing areas from Davenport, California, near Santa Cruz, up to the Douglas/Lane line in Oregon southwest of Florence.
Residents along this coastline are advised to evacuate to higher ground due to the potential for significant tsunami inundation. The tsunami warning emphasizes that tsunamis are not singular events; rather, they consist of multiple waves that can pose danger for several hours following the initial occurrence. It is particularly important for residents to note that the first wave may not necessarily be the most destructive.
Tsunami arrival times have been estimated for several locations, including Fort Bragg, California, where waves are expected at 11:10 a.m., and Crescent City, California, along with Port Orford, Oregon, both projected to be affected at 11:20 a.m. Other locations such as Brookings, Oregon, and Charleston, Oregon, are anticipated to experience waves by 11:25 a.m. and 11:40 a.m., respectively, while San Francisco could see waves at 12:10 p.m. The tsunami warning will remain effective until further notice, and further information can be accessed via tsunami.gov.
The earthquake’s tremors were felt widely across California and as far as northern Nevada, including the vicinity of Reno-Sparks. In addition, the USGS has confirmed the occurrence of smaller aftershocks following the initial quake, indicating ongoing seismic activity in the region.
Earthquakes are a common occurrence in California due to the state’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire. This area is known for its tectonic plate movements which can trigger significant seismic events. The potential for tsunamis resulting from underwater earthquakes poses additional risks to coastal communities. Tsunami warnings are issued when seismic activity suggests the possibility of large waves that may lead to flooding and other dangers.
In summary, a preliminary 7.0 magnitude earthquake off the Northern California coast has triggered a tsunami warning for the nearby coastal areas. The warning advises residents to seek higher grounds to mitigate potential risks. Authorities have provided estimated arrival times for tsunami waves in various locations along the California and Oregon shores. Continued vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines are essential as aftershocks and the threat of additional waves persist.
Original Source: mynews4.com
