According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a late-night 3.9-magnitude earthquake shook Northern California’s Clear Lake region.
According to the USGS, the 1.5-mile deep earthquake struck between Santa Rosa and Clear Lake at 9:55 p.m. on Monday, December 9.
As of early Tuesday morning, the agency received reports of the tremor from over 130 persons, including some from as far away as Junction City and San Jose.
Clear Lake is roughly 120 miles north of San Francisco and 175 miles southeast of Ferndale, which was struck by an earthquake of a magnitude of 7.0 on December 5.
Things to be aware of about earthquakes
The U.S. Geological Survey states that magnitude quantifies the energy released at the earthquake’s source. It takes the place of the previous Richter scale.
According to Michigan Tech, earthquakes with a magnitude of 2.5 to 5.4 are frequently felt but rarely result in significant damage. Most people rarely feel earthquakes smaller than 2.5 magnitude.
Avalanches, landslides, tsunamis, and flames can all result from an earthquake’s abrupt, fast shaking. The Department of Homeland Security states that although they can occur anywhere, they are most often in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, and Washington.
It’s best to take immediate precautions in case of an earthquake. Here are some expert tips:
Stop and pull over if you’re in a car. Put the parking brake on.
If you’re in bed, turn over and place a pillow over your head.
If you’re outside, keep your distance from structures. Stay out of the house.
Stay inside and avoid running outside if you’re inside. Avoid going through entrances.
According to officials, the recommended course of action during an earthquake is to drop, cover, and hold on.
Officials advise everyone to go on their hands and knees and grasp onto something solid wherever they are. Make sure your wheels are secured if you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, and stay seated until the shaking stops.
If you can, crawl under a sturdy table and cover your head and neck with your arms. Crawl to an inner wall away from windows if there isn’t any shelter.
Officials advise holding on with one hand and being prepared to move with it once you are beneath a table.
According to officials, there may be major risks following an earthquake, including building damage, leaking water and gas lines, or broken electrical lines. An earthquake’s main shock is likely to be followed by aftershocks. If you experience an aftershock, be prepared to Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
–The Kansas City Star/TNS/Don Sweeney
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