7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northern California, Tsunami Warning Issued

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Northern California, prompting tsunami warnings affecting over 5.3 million people. The quake, felt widely including in San Francisco, occurred near Ferndale at 10:44 a.m. Authorities have urged residents to seek higher ground and stay away from coastal areas.

On Thursday, a significant seismic event of magnitude 7.0 struck offshore Northern California, prompting immediate tsunami warnings throughout the region. The earthquake occurred at 10:44 a.m. near Ferndale, located in Humboldt County close to the Oregon border, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremor was notably felt in areas stretching as far south as San Francisco where residents experienced rolling motions for several seconds, followed by smaller aftershocks.

In response to the earthquake, the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) temporarily halted all transit operations through the underwater tunnel connecting San Francisco and Oakland. This precautionary measure was taken for the safety of passengers and staff as local authorities assessed the situation. Approximately 5.3 million residents of California received tsunami warnings, indicating potential localized damage, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Furthermore, it was estimated that over 1.3 million individuals reside in proximity to the earthquake’s epicenter and may have experienced the tremors. In the Santa Cruz area, the National Weather Service issued urgent alerts to residents warning them of possible impactful waves and strong currents, advising, “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.”

Earthquakes are frequent occurrences along the California coast due to the complex geology and the movement of tectonic plates. The region is known for its seismic activity, categorized by varying magnitudes and intensities, which often lead to additional precautions such as tsunami warnings. In this specific incident, the government agencies acted promptly in alerting the public to mitigate potential risks posed by the tidal waves anticipated following such a substantial earthquake.

In summary, the magnitude 7.0 earthquake off the Northern California coast exemplifies the seismic risks present in this region. The timely issuance of tsunami warnings highlights the preparedness of local authorities to manage natural disasters effectively. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to safety advisories during such events to ensure their wellbeing and minimize risks associated with seismic activity.

Original Source: www.ocregister.com