A 7.0 earthquake near California’s coast triggered a tsunami warning for parts of California and Oregon. The warning is effective from 10:49 a.m. to 11:49 a.m., with expected wave arrivals in various locations shortly thereafter. Residents have been advised of the potential for significant inundation from subsequent tsunami waves following the initial warning.
On Thursday at 10:44 a.m., a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck approximately 62 miles off the coast of California near Ferndale, occurring at a depth of around 6 miles. In response to this seismic event, the National Weather Service issued a tsunami warning for parts of the California and Oregon coasts, specifically targeting the south central Oregon Coast and Curry County. The warning remains effective from 10:49 a.m. until 11:49 a.m., affecting regions from 10 miles northwest of Santa Cruz to 10 miles southwest of Florence. The National Weather Service anticipates that tsunami waves may reach Port Orford as early as 11:20 a.m., Brookings by 11:25 a.m., and Charleston at 11:40 a.m. The warning underscores the potential for significant inundation, with the agency advising residents that “tsunami warnings mean that a tsunami with significant inundation is possible or is already occurring.” Residents are cautioned that the initial tsunami wave may not be the largest and that subsequent waves can pose dangers for hours after the initial impact. This situation remains fluid and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Tsunamis are a series of ocean waves generated by underwater disturbances, and they can be triggered by events such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. Due to the elevated seismic activity along the west coast, particularly in California and Oregon, residents in coastal areas are advised to remain vigilant during tsunami warnings. The technology and monitoring provided by agencies such as the National Weather Service play a crucial role in disseminating timely alerts to mitigate potential risks to human life and property along vulnerable coastlines.
In summary, the recent earthquake off the coast of California has prompted a significant tsunami warning, affecting several coastal regions in Oregon. The National Weather Service’s guidance emphasizes the seriousness of such warnings, urging communities to take necessary precautions as the situation develops. Continuous monitoring and updates will be provided to ensure public safety as responses to the event unfold.
Original Source: www.oregonlive.com
