A 7.0 magnitude 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 transit disruptions and urgent advisories for coastal residents to move to higher ground.
On Thursday, a significant earthquake registering 7.0 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Northern California at 10:44 a.m. The seismic event originated west of Ferndale, a small city located in Humboldt County, which lies near the Oregon border. The tremors were felt widely, extending as far south as San Francisco, where residents experienced several seconds of rolling motion followed by aftershocks. In response, officials have issued a tsunami warning for affected regions.
The impact of the earthquake led to immediate safety measures, including the suspension of all transit traffic through the underwater tunnel operated by the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) between San Francisco and Oakland. The U.S. Geological Survey indicated that approximately 5.3 million individuals in California are currently under a tsunami warning, characterized by a yellow alert suggesting localized, albeit minimal damage is anticipated.
Moreover, more than 1.3 million residents live close enough to the earthquake’s epicenter to potentially feel its effects. In the Santa Cruz area, the National Weather Service sent urgent warnings to mobile phones, alerting residents: “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. Keep away from the coast until local officials say it is safe to return.”
Earthquakes are common occurrences along California’s coastline due to the state’s position above major tectonic plates. This region is particularly susceptible to seismic activity, and authorities are constantly monitoring geological data to ensure public safety. Tsunami warnings are typically issued in the aftermath of significant seismic events, especially when they occur under or near the ocean, due to the potential for larger waves that can impact coastal communities.
In conclusion, the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck off the Northern California coast prompted a tsunami warning affecting millions. As residents were urged to evacuate coastal areas, the immediate response included transportation shutdowns and widespread communication about safety measures. The overlapping risks of earthquakes and tsunamis highlight the importance of preparedness for Californians in seismically active regions.
Original Source: www.ocregister.com
