Northern California was rocked by a powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake on Thursday, with the epicenter located just off the coast of Fortuna, according to the US Geological Survey. Initially reported as a 6.6 magnitude quake, it was later upgraded, prompting widespread concern across the region.
The US National Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami warning for areas stretching from Davenport, California, to the Douglas County/Lane County line in Oregon. The warning, which affected an estimated 5.3 million California residents, included the entire San Francisco Bay Area. A message sent to residents’ phones urged immediate action: “A series of powerful waves and strong currents may impact coasts near you. You are in danger. Get away from coastal waters. Move to high ground or inland now.”
The warning led to significant disruptions. In San Francisco, BART transportation experienced major delays, and the Transbay Tube, which runs underwater, was closed. The San Francisco Zoo announced its closure, stating that guests were evacuated, animals secured, and staff moved to higher ground.
Several aftershocks followed the initial quake, including a 5.8-magnitude tremor near Cobb, California, and others ranging between 2.5 to 4.2 in magnitude, according to CBS News.
The National Weather Service warned residents about the nature of tsunamis, noting that they often consist of multiple waves and that the first wave may not be the largest. “Tsunamis are a series of waves dangerous many hours after the initial arrival time,” the statement read.
Just before noon Pacific time, the US National Tsunami Warning Center canceled the tsunami warning, providing relief to affected communities. Despite the cancellation, authorities are urging residents to remain cautious and follow safety guidelines for aftershocks and potential secondary impacts.
