Tsunami Warning Issued Following 7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Off California Coast
A powerful earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of northern California on December 5, 2024, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning for much of the Pacific coast north of San Francisco. The earthquake occurred at approximately 10:44 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located near the small town of Eureka, at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that this earthquake is the largest recorded in California during the 2020s, surpassing the 7.1 magnitude Ridgecrest earthquake in 2019. While no immediate casualties or tsunami waves have been reported, the National Weather Service's Tsunami Warning Center indicated that hazardous tsunamis could potentially affect coastlines within 300 kilometers (186 miles) of the epicenter. Residents and visitors along the coast have been advised to remain vigilant and prepared for possible tsunami activity.
Historical Context of Tsunamis and Earthquakes in the Region
Tsunamis are typically generated by seismic events such as earthquakes and underwater landslides, which cause a rapid displacement of water. The last significant tsunami to impact the United States occurred in 1964, resulting in 122 fatalities primarily in Alaska, British Columbia, and California. The catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by a 9.1 magnitude earthquake, serves as a stark reminder of the potential devastation tsunamis can cause, claiming over 230,000 lives across multiple countries.
As the situation develops, authorities continue to monitor seismic activity and provide updates to ensure public safety along the affected coastlines.
