A magnitude 7.0 earthquake occurred near Petrolia, California, triggering a tsunami warning from southern Oregon to San Francisco Bay. Residents are advised to evacuate inland as potential tsunami waves could impact the coast. Preliminary economic loss estimates range from $1-$10 million to over $100 million. This story will be updated as more information emerges.
On Thursday, a significant magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck close to Petrolia, California, at 10:44 a.m. local time. This seismic event triggered a tsunami warning that extended from southern Oregon to San Francisco Bay. The quake originated offshore in the sparsely populated northern California region and was felt prominently throughout Humboldt County, directly along the San Andreas Fault, which is well-known for its activity.
Just five minutes after the earthquake, a tsunami warning was issued, alerting residents that waves could begin impacting the coastline shortly thereafter. Specifically, communities were informed that the tsunami could reach Fort Bragg by 11:10 a.m. and arrive in San Francisco around 12:10 p.m. Residents in the warned zones, spanning from Davenport, northwest of Santa Cruz, to the Douglas Lane County line in Oregon, were instructed to evacuate inland and away from beaches and potential tsunami hazard areas.
The National Tsunami Warning Center emphasized the urgency of such precautions, advising, “Move out of the water, off the beach, and away from harbors, marinas, breakwaters, bays and inlets.” Communities were warned of potential repeated coastal flooding as waves were predicted to impact the shore and subsequently drain back into the ocean.
The Petrolia Fire District office experienced high call volumes from individuals reporting the quake’s effects. A thorough understanding of earthquake measurements indicates that a magnitude of 7.0 represents a significant event; for context, the moment magnitude scale indicates that such a quake can possess severe destructive capacity. Preliminary assessments from the US Geological Survey project a considerable probability of economic losses ranging from $1-$10 million, with a 15% likelihood of losses exceeding $100 million. This story will be updated as more details emerge.
California is historically prone to earthquakes due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region rife with tectonic activity. The San Andreas Fault, in particular, is known for its potential to generate significant seismic events. Earthquake magnitude, measured using the moment magnitude scale, reflects the energy released during an earthquake, with higher values indicating increased severity. A magnitude of 7.0 is classified as a major earthquake capable of causing considerable damage, particularly in populated areas. The issuance of tsunami warnings in response to such earthquakes is crucial for public safety, as coastal communities need to prepare for potential flooding and debris movement caused by tidal waves.
In summary, the magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck near Petrolia, California, has resulted in a tsunami warning affecting a substantial coastal area, including San Francisco Bay. Evacuation orders are in place for several communities as officials emphasize the risks of flooding and debris due to anticipated tsunami waves. Preliminary economic forecasts suggest significant potential losses, highlighting the earthquake’s impact on both individuals and the broader economy in the region. The situation will continue to develop, with updates to follow as they become available.
Original Source: www.rgj.com
