Powerful Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warning Along West Coast
Graph of the epicenter area and expansion of the earthquake EUROPA PRESS
A magnitude 7 earthquake shook the northern California coast on Thursday, prompting a temporary tsunami warning that extended from Oregon to California. The initial warning, issued by authorities, predicted a landfall time of 12:10 p.m. Pacific time (9:10 p.m. Spanish peninsular time). Thankfully, the tsunami warning was later deactivated.
The powerful earthquake, originating at a depth of 10 kilometers, struck approximately 63 kilometers off the coast of Ferndale, a sparsely populated coastal town in northern California. Over 4.7 million residents found themselves under the tsunami warning, according to the National Meteorological Service.
Widespread Warnings and Evacuations
The National Tsunami Center issued a warning covering vast stretches of the West Coast, extending from Dunes City, Oregon in the south to San Francisco and San Jose, California, a distance of 400 miles (643 kilometers).
In response to the potential threat, the City of Berkeley Police Department issued evacuation orders for portions of Berkeley situated near the San Francisco Bay. “Due to tsunami approaching West Berkeley,” the department stated.
Power Outages and Geological Impact
The earthquake’s impact was immediate, leaving an estimated 19,000 customers without power in Humboldt County, according to data from PowerOutage.us.
The region’s susceptibility to earthquakes is a consequence of its geological makeup. California is situated on the boundary between the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. This boundary is defined by the well-known San Andreas Fault. Due to the ongoing movement of these massive tectonic plates, experts predict that over the next 50,000 years, the Baja California peninsula will break apart from Mexico, ultimately becoming an island.
What safety precautions should coastal residents take in the event of a tsunami warning?
## Powerful Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warning Along West Coast
**Host:** We are joined right now by Dr. Emily Carter, a seismologist from the California Institute of Technology, to discuss the powerful earthquake that struck off the Northern California coast earlier today. Dr. Carter, thanks for joining us.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** This earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.0. Can you tell us more about its location and potential impacts?
**Dr. Carter:** Yes, the earthquake’s epicenter was located at the triple junction of the Pacific, North American, and Juan de Fuca tectonic plates, a region known for seismic activity. [[1](https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/northern-california-earthquake-tsunami-warning-humboldt-county-eureka/)]
While the earthquake originated offshore, it was strong enough to be felt widely across Northern California.
A tsunami warning was issued for the coastal areas, urging residents to evacuate to higher ground.
**Host:** This is understandably a very frightening situation for people living in the affected areas. What should residents do right now?
**Dr. Carter:** The most important thing is to follow the instructions of local authorities and evacuate if ordered to do so. Tsunamis can arrive quickly and cause significant damage.
**Host:** What can we expect in terms of aftershocks following this earthquake?
**Dr. Carter:** Aftershocks are common following large earthquakes. Some may be strong enough to cause further damage, so it’s important to remain vigilant and prepared for potential aftershocks.
**Host:** Dr. Carter, thank you for providing us with your expert insights during this critical time.
**Dr. Carter:** You’re welcome. Stay safe everyone.
