Şevval Tufan
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of northern California close to Ferndale, a tiny town in Humboldt County, approximately 260 miles (418 km) north of San Francisco. At 10:44 AM local time (18:44 GMT), the earthquake first prompted a tsunami warning for southern Oregon and northern California, which are home to over 4.7 million people. The warning was later withdrawn.
Local Impact and Immediate Response
Although there were no recorded fatalities or extensive damage, the earthquake did cause some significant interruptions. According to poweroutage.us, approximately 10,000 people in Humboldt County were without power. Minor structural damage, such objects tumbling off shelves and wall cracks, was reported by a few residences and businesses. Although there was no catastrophic damage, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office did report that there was minor debris spread and brief power outages in several places.
Residents in Ferndale, closest to the earthquake’s epicenter, shared harrowing accounts. Olivia Cobian, an innkeeper at the Gingerbread Mansion Inn, described the interior as resembling a “war zone,” with heavy furniture moved and many items shattered. Todd Dunaway, a resident of nearby Fortuna, recounted how the earthquake caused intense shaking, describing it as “standing on a giant waterbed.” He and his wife nervously waited to see if a larger aftershock would follow.
Tsunami Evacuation and Precautions
Before the tsunami warning was lifted, areas such as Berkeley in northern California issued evacuation orders, urging residents in the tsunami hazard zone to move to higher ground. In Half Moon Bay, hotel staff directed guests to evacuate gyms and seek safety on elevated terrain. Despite the warning being canceled, these swift evacuations underscored the urgency and preparedness required in coastal regions.
Government and Emergency Response
In order to mobilise resources and coordinate response activities, Governor Gavin Newsom promptly declared a state of emergency. Citing California’s history of earthquakes as a reminder of the dangers of residing in the area, he underlined the significance of being prepared.
Seismic Activity in the Region
Due to its location at the meeting point of many tectonic plates, northern California is extremely vulnerable to seismic activity. Earthquakes of this size are less common in the region, although vibrations are regular. Only ten to fifteen earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 occur worldwide each year, according to the USGS, and this is one of nine that have already occurred in 2024.
The risks associated with seismic activity have been brought to light by previous earthquakes in the area, including the disastrous Northridge quake in 1994. In the event the water around the shore rapidly recedes—a warning indication of a potential tsunami—emergency services encourage citizens to keep emergency kits on hand, become familiar with evacuation routes, and evacuate to higher ground.
Looking Ahead
Despite the earthquake causing no major casualties or widespread damage, the event serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters. Experts and local officials continue to stress the importance of preparedness in safeguarding lives and minimizing risks in this seismically active area.
