A magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit Humboldt County, CA, prompting a tsunami warning for over 5 million people. There were rolling tremors felt across the Bay Area, and BART service disruptions were noted, but no major damage has been reported thus far.
A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck Humboldt County, Northern California, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Although initially recorded as a 6.6 magnitude quake, the USGS later upgraded its intensity. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a tsunami warning affecting at least 5.3 million Californians, cautioning coastal residents to evacuate to higher ground immediately. The seismic event caused noticeable tremors in the San Francisco area and resulted in disruptions to BART train services, particularly through the underwater Transbay Tube. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of significant damage following the tremors, although residents did experience aftershocks following the main quake.
Earthquakes are common occurrences in California due to the state’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates interact. The potential for significant earthquakes creates concerns for residents, leading to strict building codes and emergency preparedness measures. The USGS plays a critical role in monitoring seismic activity and provides real-time updates during significant events, while the NWS issues alerts regarding potential tsunami threats, which can follow intense seismic activity, particularly in coastal regions.
In summary, a powerful earthquake has impacted Humboldt County, California, with widespread effects felt as far south as San Francisco. The issuance of a tsunami warning highlights the potential dangers posed to coastal communities, urging immediate evacuation to safer areas. While initial reports suggest no substantial damage, local authorities remain vigilant as they assess the situation and monitor for aftershocks.
Original Source: abc13.com
