A powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Northern California, specifically in Humboldt County, causing significant concern and triggering fear of a potential tsunami. The epicenter of the earthquake was located near Petrolia, Humboldt County, with the US Geological Survey (USGS) quickly releasing information and issuing alerts to residents in the affected areas.

The earthquake, which occurred just before noon local time, led to the immediate cancellation of a tsunami warning for California and Oregon coastal regions, including areas such as San Francisco. The National Tsunami Warning Center acted swiftly, stating, “The tsunami Warning is canceled for the coastal areas of California and Oregon. No tsunami danger presently exists for this area.” Despite the cancellation of the warning, the USGS issued a yellow tsunami warning for 5.3 million Californians, though they predicted that any resulting tsunamis would be isolated and cause minimal harm.

Approximately 1.3 million people in the vicinity were estimated to have felt the tremors from the earthquake, with reports suggesting that the impact was mainly horizontal rather than vertical, reducing the risk of a significant tsunami. The USGS classified the earthquake as “primarily strike-slip,” indicating that the tectonic plates shifted horizontally, a factor that lessened the potential for a destructive tsunami wave.

Following the initial earthquake, subsequent seismic activity was reported, including a 5.0 magnitude earthquake in Ferndale and a 4.2 magnitude quake near Petrolia. Reports from various regions indicated that residents had experienced the effects of the earthquake, with alarms sounding along the coast from Lincoln City, Oregon, to Salinas, California.

Despite the significant magnitude of the earthquake, immediate damage reports were minimal, and no injuries were reported. However, disruptions to transportation were noted, with delays affecting services such as BART due to safety concerns following the earthquake. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in response to the earthquake, with assessments of the damage already underway.

State Senator Mike McGuire highlighted the impact of the earthquake on social media, noting that thousands of households were without electricity and that some homes had collapsed. Local officials in affected areas also reported instances of road fractures, gas leaks, and minor structural damage, though the overall impact was relatively contained.

The potential for aftershocks in the coming days and weeks was acknowledged by USGS experts, who estimated a 5% likelihood of a magnitude 6 or larger aftershock and a 34% probability of a magnitude 5 quake. Residents were advised to prepare for possible aftershocks and to stay informed about safety measures in the event of further seismic activity.

As communities in Northern California and beyond recover from the effects of the earthquake, the swift response of authorities and the resilience of residents will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of those impacted by this natural disaster.