15 Dec 2024 | 07:59 AM UTC
US: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs in North Pacific Ocean, west-northwest of Petrolia, California, at around 23:21 Dec. 14.
Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs west-northwest of Petrolia, CA, US, at 23:21 Dec. 14. No immediate reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurred in the North Pacific Ocean at around 23:21 Dec. 14. The epicenter was about 73 km (45 miles) west-northwest of Petrolia, California. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 0.4 km (0.2 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of California. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
