Tsunami Warning Issued Following Major Earthquake Off Northern California Coast

A tsunami warning is active from Santa Cruz to Oregon due to a 7.0 magnitude earthquake off Northern California’s coast. Residents are advised to evacuate to higher ground before potentially dangerous waves arrive, expected to impact San Francisco by 12:10 p.m.

A tsunami warning has been issued for areas along the Northern California coast following a significant earthquake. The 7.0 magnitude quake occurred approximately west of Ferndale in Humboldt County around 10:45 a.m. on Thursday. Subsequently, alert messages were sent to residents’ cellphones, instructing them to evacuate coastal zones stretching from Davenport, located in Santa Cruz County, to Douglas, Oregon, in preparation for potentially hazardous waves. The National Weather Service urges affected individuals to “move inland to higher ground” for safety.

This warning arises from the geological circumstances of the Pacific Coast, where seismic activity can lead to tsunamis originating from underwater earthquakes. The specific incident in question occurred off the coast of California, a region known for its tectonic activity due to the interaction between the North American and Pacific tectonic plates. Such earthquakes pose risks not only from shaking but also from resultant tsunamis, which can cause widespread devastation along coastlines.

In summary, a tsunami warning has been activated for the Northern California coast and parts of Oregon following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake. Residents in the warned areas are advised to seek higher ground immediately to ensure their safety against the incoming waves. This situation continues to evolve, and officials emphasize the importance of adherence to safety protocols as further assessments unfold.

Original Source: sfstandard.com