7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northern California, Tsunami Warning Issued
A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck Northern California near Ferndale, prompting a tsunami warning for over 5 million residents. The quake was felt as far south as San Francisco, leading to transportation halts and alerts from emergency services urging evacuation from coastal areas.
On Thursday at 10:44 a.m., a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck off the coast of Northern California, near Ferndale in Humboldt County, triggering a widespread tsunami warning. The quake was felt across a significant area, reaching as far south as San Francisco, where residents experienced several seconds of rolling motion. Subsequent aftershocks were also recorded, leading to increased concerns among the populace.
In response to the earthquake, the Bay Area Rapid Transit District ceased operations in the underwater tunnel connecting San Francisco to Oakland, prioritizing passenger safety. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), approximately 5.3 million individuals in the region fell under a tsunami warning, which, while indicating possible local impacts, predicted minimal damage overall. An estimated 1.3 million people lived in close proximity to the epicenter and may have felt the tremors.
Residents in the Santa Cruz area received urgent alerts via their mobile devices from the National Weather Service, warning that “A series of powerful waves and strong currents may impact coasts near you. You are in danger. Get away from coastal waters. Move to high ground or inland now.” Individuals are advised to remain away from coastal regions until officials declare it safe to return.
Earthquakes are common occurrences along the Pacific coast due to tectonic activity associated with the San Andreas Fault and other geological formations. California, particularly Northern California, is frequently susceptible to seismic events, especially large quakes that can create tsunamis. These geophysical phenomena pose significant risks to coastal communities, necessitating timely warnings and preparedness measures to ensure public safety.
In summary, the recent 7.0 magnitude earthquake off Northern California’s coast prompted immediate action from local authorities, including a tsunami warning that affected millions. The response involved halting public transportation to ensure safety and issuing alerts to mobilize residents to higher ground. With the potential for significant wave activity, the public is reminded to heed authorities’ advice diligently and remain cautious until official safety announcements are made.
Original Source: www.sgvtribune.com
