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. citeturn0news16
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. citeturn0news15 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. citeturn0news17 Approximately 5.3 million people were affected by the warning, which was canceled about 90 minutes later when no significant tsunami threat materialized. citeturn0news16
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. citeturn0news16 Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to facilitate assistance to the affected areas. citeturn0news17
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. citeturn0search21
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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