A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off Northern California, prompting a tsunami warning for over 5 million residents. The quake, centered near Ferndale, was felt as far south as San Francisco, leading to BART suspensions. Emergency alerts advised coastal residents to seek higher ground and avoid coastal areas due to potential tsunami risks.
On Thursday, a seismic event measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale was recorded off the coast of Northern California, prompting immediate precautionary measures including a tsunami warning. The earthquake occurred at 10:44 a.m. near Ferndale in Humboldt County, a coastal town adjacent to the Oregon border, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Residents in several locations, including San Francisco, experienced noticeable tremors lasting several seconds, followed by smaller aftershocks.
In response to the earthquake, the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) suspended all rail services through its underwater tunnel connecting San Francisco to Oakland. The tsunami warning subsequently affected a significant population, with at least 5.3 million individuals in California being alerted by the USGS regarding the possibility of localized yet minimal damage. Approximately 1.3 million people resided in proximity to the epicenter and may have felt the earthquake.
Authorities in the Santa Cruz area activated emergency protocols, sending notifications through mobile devices detailing the tsunami warning from the National Weather Service. The alert advised residents 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. Keep away from the coast until local officials say it is safe to return.” This communication underscored the urgency of implementing safety measures for the coastal population.
Seismology indicates that California is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic activity is prevalent due to the movement of several fault lines, including the notorious San Andreas Fault. Earthquakes are relatively common in this region, and preparedness is vital for residents. Tsunami warnings are issued as a precautionary measure following major seismic events, as they may lead to dangerous oceanic activity affecting coastal communities. Agencies like the USGS and the National Weather Service play crucial roles in monitoring seismic activity and disseminating information during emergencies.
This earthquake serves as a reminder of the geophysical dynamics present in Northern California and the necessity for comprehensive emergency preparedness among its residents. Although significant damages were not anticipated due to the yellow alert issued, the swift responses by transit authorities and emergency services highlight the importance of civic readiness in the face of natural disasters. Continuous updates from officials will be critical as the situation develops.
Original Source: www.dailynews.com
