A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck near Humboldt, causing power outages and prompting a tsunami warning. Reports of damage included broken glass and homes displacing from their foundations. The tsunami warning was canceled shortly after, and California’s governor declared a state of emergency to facilitate resource support in the affected regions.
On Thursday, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck near Humboldt, leading to significant damage and widespread power outages. The quake prompted a tsunami warning that sent many residents to higher ground. Lenya Quinn-Davidson from the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources reported evacuating their Eureka office due to its location in the tsunami zone, noting that their power fluctuated during the tremor and subsequently went out.
Social media reports indicated incidents of broken glass and items falling from shelves. Notably, there were accounts of some homes being displaced from their foundations in the Eel River Valley. State Senator Mike McGuire highlighted that approximately 10,000 customers experienced power outages across Humboldt County, prompting the state to deploy immediate assistance.
The tsunami warning that impacted the coast from Davenport, California, to the Oregon border, was rescinded shortly before noon. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake was classified as a “strike-slip” type, characterized by tectonic plates sliding past one another, which generally poses a lower tsunami risk due to its horizontal movement. Large-scale quakes in California are unusual, with only nine recorded since 1900 measuring 7.0 or above.
Despite the earthquake’s intensity, an early warning was disseminated; however, it remains unclear how effectively it alerted the populace. The USGS registered several aftershocks in the aftermath, including a notable 4.2 magnitude shock near Petrolia. California Governor Gavin Newsom convened with state emergency officials, expressing concern for the affected counties, and remarked that a state of emergency declaration was signed to facilitate resource allocation and support as needed.
A resource guide on earthquake preparedness concludes the article, emphasizing the importance of readiness against potential future earthquakes.
Earthquakes remain a significant natural hazard in California, where the geological features make the region prone to seismic activity. The recent event near Humboldt is particularly notable due to its magnitude and the potential consequences associated with it, including aftershocks and rare tsunami warnings. The state’s history of large earthquakes underscores the critical need for preparation and public safety measures, further highlighted by official responses to this incident.
The 7.0 magnitude earthquake near Humboldt was a severe event that led to extensive power outages and damage. While the initial tsunami warning was quickly lifted, the incident serves as a reminder of California’s seismic vulnerabilities. The response from state officials underscores ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and readiness in the wake of such natural disasters.
Original Source: laist.com
