7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Northern California Coast, Tsunami Warning Canceled
A powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the Northern California coast on Thursday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter was near Petrolia, Humboldt County.
Initially, a tsunami warning was issued for coastal areas in California and Oregon, including San Francisco, but it was canceled just before noon local time. "The tsunami warning is canceled for the coastal areas of California and Oregon," the National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed on X. "No tsunami danger presently exists for this area."
The earthquake, reported at 10:44 a.m. local time, triggered an evacuation order for parts of Berkeley, California, which was later lifted. "Evacuation orders for West Berkeley have been lifted. It is safe to return to the area," city officials said.
Aftershocks and Damage Reports
The USGS noted a "robust" aftershock sequence, with over 30 aftershocks recorded, including a 4.3 magnitude tremor near Petrolia. Minor damage was reported in Humboldt County, such as roof damage in Ferndale and road cracks in Rio Dell. A gas leak at a middle school in Rio Dell was quickly resolved.
State officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom, are assessing the damage. Newsom declared a state of emergency to expedite the response. Approximately 10,000 customers in Humboldt County are without power, according to state Senator Mike McGuire.
Earthquake Early Warning System
Shake alerts from the USGS earthquake early warning system reached areas as far north as Lincoln City, Oregon, and as far south as Salinas, California. "The system was activated and performed as designed," the USGS stated, with at least 500,000 people receiving alerts.
USGS officials warned of a 5% chance of a magnitude 6 or larger earthquake occurring in the next week, and a 34% chance of a magnitude 5 quake. Residents were advised to remain vigilant for aftershocks.
Contributors: Jenna Harrison and Jennifer Watts for ABC News.
