A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck off Northern California, prompting a tsunami warning affecting over 5 million people. The quake was felt as far south as San Francisco, leading to immediate transit disruptions. Authorities advised coastal residents to seek higher ground due to potential dangers from tsunami waves.
On Thursday at 10:44 a.m., a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of Northern California, west of Ferndale, a town in Humboldt County near the Oregon border. The temblor was widely felt, including in San Francisco, where residents experienced a noticeable rolling motion. The quake was followed by several minor aftershocks, prompting swift action from authorities, including the suspension of transit services across the underwater BART tunnel connecting San Francisco and Oakland.
As a result of the earthquake, approximately 5.3 million people in California were placed under a tsunami warning issued by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The warning, categorized as a yellow alert, indicates that while localized damage might occur, it is expected to be minimal. Furthermore, more than 1.3 million residents were estimated by the USGS to be close enough to the earthquake’s epicenter to have felt its impact. In Santa Cruz, residents received urgent notifications from the National Weather Service advising them of the potential danger posed by tsunami waves and strong currents.
Historically, California has been prone to seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates converge. Earthquakes of significant magnitude can lead to catastrophic outcomes, including tsunamis. Tsunami warnings are critical for coastal inhabitants to ensure their safety during such geological events. Emergency services and geological authorities promptly assess risks following seismic occurrences to inform the public and mitigate potential dangers.
In summary, the recent 7.0 magnitude earthquake off the Northern California coast resulted in a widespread tsunami warning for millions of residents. The quake not only highlighted California’s vulnerability to such natural disasters but also emphasized the importance of preparedness and timely public alerts in safeguarding lives. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide pertinent safety information to the impacted communities.
Original Source: www.sgvtribune.com
