7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits California Coast, Tsunami Warning Rescinded

Sun Dec 21 2025 23:59:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

**7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits California Coast, Tsunami Warning Rescinded**

A powerful earthquake off the California coast prompts initial tsunami alerts for millions, but no significant damage reported.

A strong 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck near Ferndale, California, leading to a brief tsunami warning for northern California and southern Oregon, which was later lifted. Despite its intensity, local authorities confirmed that there were no fatalities or severe structural damage. The quake occurred at approximately 10:44 AM local time and was felt widely across the region, with reports of minor damages, power outages affecting over 10,000 households, and several aftershocks.

Some residents described chaotic scenes, with items thrown from shelves and swimming pools sloshing dangerously. Among them were witnesses Todd Dunaway and Olivia Cobian, who shared vivid accounts of the quake's impact. In response to the event, California Governor Gavin Newsom activated state emergency protocols, emphasizing the necessity of preparedness in a seismically active region. Experts noted the uniqueness of a quake of this magnitude in California and reminded residents of evacuation routes and safety measures in tsunami-prone areas.

Overall, while the earthquake served as a reminder of the dangers inherent in living in a tectonically active zone, the swift response by authorities and the resilience of local communities minimized potential damage and ensured public safety.