A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck off Northern California, prompting a tsunami warning and evacuation orders for Crescent City. Tremors were felt throughout Humboldt County, and residents were advised to be cautious as additional seismic activity occurred nearby.
On Thursday morning, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake was reported off the Northern California coast, sending tremors through the region and prompting a tsunami warning. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake occurred at 10:47 a.m. and affected areas within Humboldt County. Initial reports indicated a magnitude of 6.6, which was later revised.
In response to the seismic activity, residents of Crescent City were given evacuation orders. The city’s population of approximately 6,700 individuals is in Del Norte County, located in the region’s northwestern area. Furthermore, a tsunami warning was issued by the National Weather Service for the entirety of Northern California, extending through the San Francisco Bay Area and into parts of Oregon.
The warning, which mentioned an earthquake magnitude of 7.3, urged residents along the coast from Douglas, Oregon to Davenport, California, approximately ten miles northwest of Santa Cruz, to remain vigilant. The Geological Survey identified the earthquake’s epicenter as approximately 39 miles west of Petrolia, southwest of Eureka. Shortly after the main quake, additional temblors were reported, including a 5.8 magnitude quake in Sonoma County, which occurred less than five minutes later.
Earthquakes are a common occurrence along the Pacific coast due to the tectonic activity associated with the San Andreas Fault and adjacent fault lines. The region is prone to significant seismic events, which can lead to considerable destruction and risk of tsunamis. Therefore, emergency services and local authorities frequently monitor seismic activity and issue warnings to protect residents in affected areas.
In summary, the 7.0 magnitude earthquake reported off the Northern California coast highlighted the ongoing seismic risks in the region. Immediate evacuation measures and tsunami warnings demonstrated the importance of preparedness and response strategies to safeguard the public. As authorities continue to assess the situation, vigilance remains crucial for residents along the coastline.
Original Source: www.sacbee.com
