Eureka, California – A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.0 struck off the coast of Northern California late Thursday morning, according to data released by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic event occurred over the Pacific Ocean, approximately 50 miles southwest of Eureka, California, a significant coastal city situated about 300 miles northwest of Sacramento.
Local authorities report that strong tremors were felt across the region, though immediate details on the extent of any damage or injuries remain unclear. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and regional emergency management agencies are monitoring the situation. Officials are advising residents and visitors to remain alert as assessments continue throughout the afternoon.
Shortly following the earthquake, the National Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami warning for parts of the California and Oregon coastline. Communities along the affected areas have been urged to follow all safety instructions, including seeking higher ground if advised by local authorities. Coastal highways, harbors, and marinas are under careful observation by emergency personnel, and boaters are encouraged to exercise caution or return to port if conditions worsen.
Eureka, known for its historic Victorian architecture and role as a principal city along California’s northern coast, serves as a commercial, cultural, and logistical hub between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon. As the largest coastal city in this corridor, its infrastructure and communication networks play a critical role in supporting nearby communities that may be affected. Public safety officials have begun preliminary inspections of essential facilities, roads, bridges, and public utilities for signs of damage.
Local school districts and businesses have enacted emergency protocols, and many have either closed or are reassessing operating hours while awaiting further guidance. Hospital and medical centers in the region are ensuring emergency preparedness measures are in place in case of aftershocks or additional tsunami threats.
The U.S. Coast Guard, operating in the region, is maintaining regular communications with state and local agencies. Weather and oceanic conditions are being closely observed by meteorological and seismic experts, who are working to provide timely updates on potential aftershocks and changing marine conditions.
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring information from reliable sources, including local television and radio stations, the National Weather Service, and official government alerts. Public officials will provide updates as more details become available regarding the scope of any damage, potential injuries, and ongoing safety measures.
Tsunami Warnings
Nearly 5 million people are under the tsunami warning from Davenport, California, up to Douglas/Lane Line, Oregon, according the National Tsunami Warning Center. This includes the San Francisco Bay area, Eureka, Fort Bragg, and Crescent City, California.
Tsunami activity is likely reaching the closest coastlines now, and should reach San Francisco in one hour. The following locations are forecast to see tsunami activity begin at these specified times:
California
- Fort Bragg: 11:10 a.m. PT
- Crescent City: 11:20 a.m. PT
- San Francisco: 12:10 p.m. PT
Oregon
- Port Orford: 11:20 a.m. PT
- Brookings: 11:25 a.m. PT
- Charleston: 11:40 a.m. PT
Eureka, California - A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.0 struck off the coast of Northern California late Thursday morning, according to data released by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic event occurred over the Pacific Ocean, approximately 50 miles southwest of Eureka, California, a significant coastal city situated about 300 miles northwest of Sacramento.
