A 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred off Humboldt County at 10:44 a.m. on Thursday, prompting tsunami warnings for areas as far south as Davenport. Meteorologists expect the wave to reach San Francisco around noon but believe Santa Cruz will remain sheltered from the surge.
On Thursday morning at 10:44 a.m., a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Humboldt County, located approximately 300 miles north of Santa Cruz County. This seismic event prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue tsunami warnings alerting citizens that a tsunami surge could affect regions as far south as Davenport. By 10:51 a.m., alerts were sent to smartphones across Santa Cruz County, warning residents of the potential tsunami impact.
Meteorologist Braden Murdoch of the NWS Bay Area indicated that while the tsunami surge is expected to reach San Francisco around noon, he believes that the tsunami will predominantly spare the Santa Cruz area. He emphasized that the Santa Cruz coastline should be “sheltered” and should not experience significant impact from the surge. It is noteworthy that this earthquake surpassed the 6.9 magnitude experienced during the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989, showcasing the severity of the current event. This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The earthquake that struck near Humboldt County is a significant geological event, given its high magnitude of 7.0, which can potentially lead to severe consequences, including tsunamis. The area has experienced substantial seismic activity in the past, and the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake remains a reference point for understanding the implications of such seismic events. The National Weather Service plays a crucial role in monitoring these occurrences and forecasting any subsequent natural disasters, such as tsunamis.
In conclusion, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake off the Humboldt County coast led to tsunami warnings for areas as far south as Davenport. Meteorological forecasts suggest the tsunami surge may reach San Francisco by noon, although the Santa Cruz area is expected to remain largely unaffected. As this situation evolves, it is imperative for residents to stay informed through official updates.
Original Source: lookout.co
