7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern California, Brief Tsunami Warning Issued

On December 5, 2024, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Northern California near Petrolia. The quake triggered a brief tsunami warning for approximately 5 million people, which was canceled shortly after no significant tsunami was observed. Minor damages included power outages affecting around 10,000 residents and structural impacts in the vicinity. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, while local authorities reported no injuries and urged preparedness for aftershocks. The earthquake was the largest to hit the area since 1992, with ongoing aftershocks expected.