7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Prompts Tsunami Warnings for Davenport Area

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred off Humboldt County at 10:44 a.m., with expected tsunami surges into areas as far south as Davenport, according to the National Weather Service. The quake was approximately 300 miles from Santa Cruz County. Meteorologist Braden Murdoch anticipates the tsunami will reach San Francisco by noon but expects little impact on Santa Cruz.

A significant earthquake registering 7.0 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Humboldt County at 10:44 a.m. on Thursday, prompting tsunami warnings for areas as far south as Davenport, California. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the quake, which occurred approximately 300 miles north of Santa Cruz County. By 10:51 a.m., residents of Santa Cruz received notifications on their smartphones alerting them to the impending tsunami threat. Meteorologist Braden Murdoch from the National Weather Service indicated that the tsunami surge is anticipated to reach San Francisco around noon but does not expect it to impact areas further south, describing Santa Cruz County as “sheltered” from significant waves.

This earthquake follows a pattern of seismic activity along the California coast, where tectonic plates frequently shift, resulting in earthquakes. The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, which had a magnitude of 6.9, serves as a historical reference point for seismic events in the region. The National Weather Service’s tsunami warnings during seismic events are critical for public safety, providing timely alerts to minimize risks associated with possible tsunami surges following substantial earthquakes.

In summary, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred off the Humboldt County coast, with the potential for tsunami waves to reach as far south as Davenport. As the situation unfolds, the National Weather Service continues to monitor the event closely to ensure public safety. This incident emphasizes the importance of preparedness in coastal regions susceptible to seismic activities and potential tsunamis.

Original Source: lookout.co