A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck off Northern California, triggering a tsunami warning for over 5 million residents. The quake was felt across a wide area, including San Francisco, impacting public transit and prompting emergency alerts for coastal safety.
On Thursday, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake occurred off the coast of Northern California at 10:44 a.m., near Ferndale, Humboldt County. This seismic event triggered a tsunami warning affecting at least 5.3 million residents across California, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake was felt as far south as San Francisco, where citizens experienced a noticeable rolling motion that lasted several seconds and was succeeded by minor aftershocks.
The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) temporarily halted operations through its underwater tunnel connecting San Francisco and Oakland to ensure public safety. Authorities advised caution, particularly in coastal regions where warning notifications were sent out from the National Weather Service urging residents to seek higher ground and to maintain distance from oceanfront areas. Furthermore, it was estimated that over 1.3 million individuals lived sufficiently close to the epicenter to have felt the tremors.
The state of California frequently experiences seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates converge. Earthquakes are common in this region, but significant ones, such as the recent 7.0 magnitude quake, understandably raise concern due to the potential for tsunamis and other secondary hazards. Tsunami warnings are issued when seismic events possess the capability to generate hazardous ocean waves, which can cause severe flooding and destruction to coastal communities.
In summary, the recent 7.0 earthquake off the coast of Northern California prompted a serious tsunami warning affecting millions of residents. Emergency protocols were activated, including disruptions of public transit. The event serves as a reminder of the seismic risks inherent in this region and highlights the importance of preparedness in the face of potential natural disasters.
Original Source: www.ocregister.com
