A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 struck Northern California’s coast, followed by a series of smaller aftershocks. U.S. authorities issued tsunami warnings and urged residents to move inland.
The region, home to 5.3 million people, is on high alert, though initial forecasts suggest localized but minimal damage, according to Reuters and the Associated Press.
Tsunami warnings issued
The National Weather Service (NWS) sent emergency alerts to residents, stating:
“A series of strong waves and currents may impact nearby coastlines. You are in danger. Stay away from coastal waters. Move to higher ground or further inland immediately. Remain away from the coastline until local officials confirm it is safe to return.”
Rachel Kennedy, a meteorologist with the NWS, cautioned that tsunami waves could reach San Francisco’s shores shortly. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to estimate the potential height of the waves.
Transportation and evacuations
In response, the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) suspended all travel through its underwater tunnel connecting San Francisco and Oakland. The city zoo also evacuated its staff and secured its animals, relocating them to higher ground.
Epicenter and impact
The initial quake struck at 10:44 a.m. local time, west of the coastal town of Ferndale, at a depth of 10 kilometers. Tremors were felt as far north as San Francisco. Authorities are continuing to assess the impact as residents brace for potential aftereffects.
