Powerful Earthquake Hits Northern California, Tsunami Alert Issued

On Thursday, Northern California experienced a significant seismic event with a magnitude of 7.0, as identified by the United States Geological Survey.

Originating just offshore near the town of Petrolia within Humboldt County, this earthquake's epicenter was pinpointed by the USGS.

Following the tremor, a tsunami alert was activated for several coastal regions spanning California and Oregon, such as San Francisco, according to the National Tsunami Warning Center. The advisory extends from Davenport, California, up to the Douglas/Lane Line in Oregon and remains active until further announcements. Predicted arrival in San Francisco of the tsunami waves was scheduled around 12:10 p.m. local time.

Emergency Response and Evacuations

Berkeley's police issued an immediate evacuation directive for specific sections of the city due to the impending tsunami threat targeting West Berkeley. Residents within the danger zone are urged to vacate immediately, moving beyond 7th Street.

Important: Earthquake Safety Tips

According to the National Tsunami Warning Center, the seismic activity was recorded at 10:44 a.m. local time. Additional tremors, including one measuring 4.2 in magnitude near Petrolia, followed soon after, as noted by the USGS.

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, conveyed through social media that the state's Office of Emergency Services is actively engaging with the situation in Northern California. He advised residents to adhere to directions from local emergency officials.