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Emergency Responders Mobilize
Firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and public works crews quickly mobilized throughout Humboldt County.
Emergency shelters were prepared for residents whose homes were no longer safe.
Medical teams treated individuals for injuries ranging from cuts and bruises to fractures caused by falling objects.
Officials also confirmed that two deaths were associated with medical emergencies occurring during or shortly after the earthquake.
While not every emergency was caused directly by structural collapse, the stressful conditions highlighted the serious health risks that can accompany major disasters.
Aftershocks Continue
Even after the strongest shaking stopped, the danger had not completely passed.
Several aftershocks followed throughout the day.
Although smaller than the main earthquake, they were strong enough to unsettle already damaged buildings and remind residents that additional shaking remained possible.
Emergency officials advised people to avoid entering structures showing visible signs of damage until professional inspections could be completed.
Residents were also encouraged to remain prepared for additional aftershocks, which can continue for days or even weeks after a significant earthquake.
How Earthquakes Occur
California sits along one of the world’s most active seismic regions.
The movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface constantly builds pressure.
When that pressure is suddenly released, seismic waves travel through the ground, creating the shaking people experience during an earthquake.
Although scientists continue improving earthquake monitoring systems, there is currently no reliable method for predicting exactly when a major earthquake will occur.
This makes preparedness especially important for people living in earthquake-prone regions.
Earthquake Safety Tips
Emergency management agencies recommend several simple steps that can improve safety before, during, and after an earthquake.
Before an earthquake:
- Keep emergency supplies including food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries.
- Secure heavy furniture to walls.
- Identify safe places inside your home away from windows.
- Develop a family communication plan.
During an earthquake:
- Drop to the ground.
- Take cover beneath sturdy furniture if available.
- Hold on until the shaking stops.
- Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy objects that could fall.
- If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and utility lines.
After an earthquake:
- Check for injuries.
- Watch for gas leaks or damaged electrical wiring.
- Expect aftershocks.
- Follow instructions from local emergency officials.
- Avoid entering damaged buildings until they have been inspected.