A strong 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit west of Ferndale in Northern California on Thursday morning, prompting widespread concern. The quake, felt as far as San Francisco, triggered a tsunami warning for over 500 miles of coastline, extending into Oregon.
Tsunami Warning and Immediate Response
The National Weather Service issued a tsunami warning shortly after the earthquake. Residents were advised to evacuate coastal areas and move to higher ground. The warning, which caused widespread alarm, was later lifted after assessments showed minimal risk of dangerous waves.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
The quake disrupted daily life in many areas:
- Ferndale: Julie Kreitzer, owner of Golden Gait Mercantile, reported significant damage to her store, calling it worse than a previous quake two years ago.
- Schools: In Eureka, Mayor Kim Bergel described how children sought safety under desks during the tremors. Many were visibly frightened, with some asking to call their parents.
- Public Transport: BART services between San Francisco and Oakland were temporarily halted.
- Zoo Evacuation: San Francisco Zoo evacuated visitors and secured animals as a precaution.
Magnitude and Location
The earthquake struck at 10:44 a.m. near Ferndale, located in Humboldt County close to the Oregon border. Aftershocks followed the initial tremor, but no major damage or injuries have been reported.
Public Reactions
Residents described the shaking as intense, with some buildings swaying for an extended period. The quake disrupted holiday preparations for many local businesses, further impacting an already challenging year for small enterprises.
Safety Measures Taken
Local authorities took swift action:
- Evacuation protocols were enacted in multiple cities.
- Emergency alerts were sent to phones across Northern California.
- Damage assessments were immediately initiated in affected areas.
Conclusion
While the tsunami warning has been lifted and no significant injuries have been reported, the earthquake served as a stark reminder of California’s vulnerability to natural disasters. Authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and assess damages in affected communities.
