A powerful earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale occurred off the northern coast of California, as confirmed by the US Geological Survey. The quake’s epicenter was near Ferndale, a small town in Humboldt County, approximately 260 miles (418 km) north of San Francisco. Initially, a tsunami warning was put into effect along the coastlines of northern California and southern Oregon, risking the safety of about 4.7 million residents; however, this warning was swiftly rescinded.
Local authorities reported no fatalities or severe damage following the tremor, which is notable as one of only nine earthquakes of this magnitude globally this year. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office indicated there were no major disruptions to infrastructure, although some residents reported minor damage in their homes. Many businesses experienced items falling off shelves, with over 10,000 households losing power shortly after the quake.
Reports from witnesses describe chaotic scenes in the minutes following the quake. Olivia Cobian, innkeeper at the Gingerbread Mansion Inn in Ferndale, recounted the state of her establishment, stating it “looks like a warzone” with furniture and decor thrown about due to the shaking. Another resident, Todd Dunaway, who was dining at home in Fortuna during the earthquake, shared a terrifying experience, likening the sensation to being on "a giant waterbed."
The quake, which struck at 10:44 local time (18:44 GMT), triggered a series of aftershocks and led to evacuation orders in cities like Berkeley, warning residents in the tsunami zone of immediate danger. Kayla Aihara, a hotel guest in Half Moon Bay, reported being advised to evacuate to higher ground before the tsunami warnings were lifted.
California Governor Gavin Newsom was promptly informed about the seismic event and convened with emergency officials to discuss response efforts. He even declared a state of emergency to allocate resources effectively. Newsom noted the earthquake serves as a reminder of the constant seismic threats facing residents in California.
Officials have highlighted the importance of preparedness in tsunami-prone areas, advising locals to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and be ready for quick exits if necessary. California's coastal regions sit at the convergence of various tectonic plates, making significant tremors frequent. Historically, northern California has experienced many strong earthquakes, including a devastating 1994 quake in Northridge that resulted in extensive loss of life and property damage. Regular preparedness is crucial, as even minor tremors can lead to hazardous tsunami conditions if immediate action is not taken.
Local authorities reported no fatalities or severe damage following the tremor, which is notable as one of only nine earthquakes of this magnitude globally this year. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office indicated there were no major disruptions to infrastructure, although some residents reported minor damage in their homes. Many businesses experienced items falling off shelves, with over 10,000 households losing power shortly after the quake.
Reports from witnesses describe chaotic scenes in the minutes following the quake. Olivia Cobian, innkeeper at the Gingerbread Mansion Inn in Ferndale, recounted the state of her establishment, stating it “looks like a warzone” with furniture and decor thrown about due to the shaking. Another resident, Todd Dunaway, who was dining at home in Fortuna during the earthquake, shared a terrifying experience, likening the sensation to being on "a giant waterbed."
The quake, which struck at 10:44 local time (18:44 GMT), triggered a series of aftershocks and led to evacuation orders in cities like Berkeley, warning residents in the tsunami zone of immediate danger. Kayla Aihara, a hotel guest in Half Moon Bay, reported being advised to evacuate to higher ground before the tsunami warnings were lifted.
California Governor Gavin Newsom was promptly informed about the seismic event and convened with emergency officials to discuss response efforts. He even declared a state of emergency to allocate resources effectively. Newsom noted the earthquake serves as a reminder of the constant seismic threats facing residents in California.
Officials have highlighted the importance of preparedness in tsunami-prone areas, advising locals to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and be ready for quick exits if necessary. California's coastal regions sit at the convergence of various tectonic plates, making significant tremors frequent. Historically, northern California has experienced many strong earthquakes, including a devastating 1994 quake in Northridge that resulted in extensive loss of life and property damage. Regular preparedness is crucial, as even minor tremors can lead to hazardous tsunami conditions if immediate action is not taken.
