The National Weather Service (NWS) canceled a tsunami warning for the U.S. West Coast on Thursday after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake shook parts of Northern California. The quake, which struck at 10:44 a.m. near the coastal town of Ferndale in Humboldt County, caused widespread alarm but no significant damage or injuries were immediately reported.
Quake Felt Across Northern California
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake was centered west of Ferndale, near the Oregon border, and was followed by smaller aftershocks. Residents as far south as San Francisco experienced a rolling motion lasting several seconds.
The USGS issued a yellow alert, predicting localized but minimal damage. Despite this, the quake prompted immediate safety precautions, including temporary evacuations in several cities.
“It was a strong quake; our building shook,” said Julie Kreitzer, owner of Golden Gait Mercantile in Ferndale. “We lost a lot of stuff. It’s probably worse than two years ago.”
Tsunami Warning and Precautions
Shortly after the earthquake, the NWS issued a tsunami warning covering approximately 500 miles of coastline, from Monterey Bay in California to the Oregon border. Phones across Northern California buzzed with alerts urging residents to move inland or to higher ground.
The warning was later canceled, but not before causing disruptions. In San Francisco, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system halted traffic through its underwater tunnel connecting San Francisco and Oakland. The San Francisco Zoo evacuated visitors as a precaution, relocating staff and securing animals to higher ground.
Community Impact
Eureka Mayor Kim Bergel reported that local crews were assessing damage in her city. “There have been no major injuries or damage reported so far,” Bergel said, describing the quake’s impact on a local middle school. “The kids were so great, though terrified. Some asked, ‘Can I call my mom?’”
In Ferndale, a small city known for its historic Victorian architecture, local businesses scrambled to recover. “It’s going to be a tough year,” Kreitzer said, lamenting the damage to her store.
Aftermath and Safety Measures
As authorities conducted assessments, the NWS urged residents to remain cautious and follow official updates. The quake serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the importance of preparedness in coastal areas.
While the immediate danger has passed, residents are bracing for possible aftershocks and reflecting on the disruptions caused by the quake. Local officials and emergency responders continue to monitor the situation and provide support to affected communities.
Sources By Agencies
