Magnitude 4.7 earthquake rattles California coast in latest seismic activity along Pacific Ring of Fire
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the magnitude 4.7 earthquake occurred at 11:36 am UTC, and locals along the coast in areas such as Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge experienced weak shaking.
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HUMBOLDT COUNTY, Calif. – A moderate earthquake suddenly struck off the coast of southwestern Humboldt County, California, in the ocean.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the magnitude 4.7 earthquake occurred at 3:36 am local time, and locals along the coast in areas such as Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge experienced weak shaking.
USGS experts expect at least one aftershock of Magnitude 3 or higher within the next week.
Magnitude 4.7 earthquake in California.
According to the USGS, this region has a long history abundant seismic activity, as earthquakes are common in this area because it is so close to the Pacific, where the North America and Juan de Fuca tectonic plates meet.
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UNITED STATES - SEPTEMBER 23: View of Pacific coast, Northern California. (Carol M. Highsmith/Buyenlarge / Getty Images)
This is known as the Mendocino Triple Junction.
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If you experience an earthquake while outside, the safest thing to do is get into an open area away from buildings, power lines and anything that could fall on you during the event.