Powerful Quake Sparks West Coast Tsunami Alert, Later Canceled

Dec. 5, 2024, 6:57 pm ET

Instant Insight

  • A magnitude 7.0 earthquake triggered a tsunami warning along the U.S. West Coast
  • The warning was later canceled after no significant tsunami waves were detected
  • The earthquake occurred off the coast of Northern California

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Quick Brief

Essential Context

At 10:44 a.m. PT today, a powerful earthquake struck off Northern California’s coast, triggering immediate emergency responses and tsunami warnings across the West Coast.

Core Players

  • USGS – Confirmed 7.0 magnitude earthquake
  • Pacific Tsunami Warning Center – Issued and monitored warnings
  • National Weather Service – Coordinated coastal alerts

Key Numbers

  • 7.0 – Earthquake magnitude
  • 60 miles – Distance from Ferndale, CA
  • <0.5 miles – Earthquake depth
  • 10:44 a.m. PT – Time of occurrence

Full Depth

The Catalyst

The shallow 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck unexpectedly off Northern California’s coast, prompting immediate emergency protocols.

Inside Forces

Emergency response systems activated within minutes, with the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issuing immediate alerts to coastal communities.

Local emergency services implemented evacuation protocols in vulnerable areas.

Outside Impact

Coastal communities from Northern California to Oregon faced temporary evacuations and beach closures.

Maritime operations were temporarily suspended in potentially affected ports.

Future Forces

The event highlights the critical need for continued investment in early warning systems.

Emergency response protocols will be reviewed to enhance future tsunami preparedness.

Data Points

  • 10:44 a.m. PT – Initial earthquake
  • 11:00 a.m. PT – First tsunami warnings issued
  • 5.8 magnitude – Secondary quake near Cobb, CA
  • 2-3 hours – Duration of tsunami warning before cancellation