A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Northern California on December 5, 2024, at 10:44 a.m. PST. The epicenter was located approximately 39 miles west of Ferndale, a town in Humboldt County. citeturn0news16

The quake prompted the National Weather Service to issue a tsunami warning for parts of the West Coast, extending from Florence, Oregon, to Davenport, California—a span of about 620 miles. citeturn0news15 This warning led to evacuations in low-lying coastal areas and precautionary measures, such as the temporary suspension of Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) services and the evacuation of the San Francisco Zoo. citeturn0news17 Approximately 5.3 million people were affected by the warning, which was canceled about 90 minutes later when no significant tsunami threat materialized. citeturn0news16

Despite the earthquake’s strength, there were no immediate reports of major structural damage or injuries. In Ferndale, residents experienced intense shaking, with some businesses reporting merchandise knocked off shelves. citeturn0news16 Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to facilitate assistance to the affected areas. citeturn0news17

This region is seismically active due to the Mendocino Triple Junction, where three tectonic plates converge, making it prone to significant earthquakes. The 2024 event is the largest to strike California since the 2019 Ridgecrest earthquakes and the most powerful in the northwestern coast since 2005. citeturn0search21

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, advising residents to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks. The prompt response and precautionary measures taken highlight the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone regions.

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