Humboldt County Responds to 7.0 Earthquake: Cleanup and Community Resilience

Humboldt County, California, was struck by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake, resulting in significant cleanup efforts as residents assess damage but express relief that injuries were minimal. The quake caused substantial disruptions, particularly among local businesses, but overall, the community considers itself fortunate given the magnitude of the event.

Humboldt County, California, faced a significant cleanup effort following a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck the region, marking the largest quake Northern California has experienced in decades. The quake occurred on Thursday, resulting in numerous aftershocks and revealing extensive damage, including a notable 20-foot crack that opened on Blue Slide Road in Rio Dell. Local residents and businesses, while assessing the aftermath, are thankful that the destruction was not more severe.

Among those affected was April Ness, an employee at Hoby’s Market in Scotia, who recounted the moment the earthquake struck, causing widespread panic and chaos within the store. “I was up like this, stocking these pumpkin pies. I thought somebody was messing with me and shaking the cooler,” she stated. The quake caused the store to sustain about 30% damage to its grocery inventory, prompting a swift focus on cleanliness to reopen for customers.

Other local establishments, such as the Dollar General store, faced a similar fate, with signs indicating closures until further notice due to damages. City officials, including City Manager Kyle Knopp, reported that staff were in protective positions during the tremor, describing the experience as an “unwelcomed roller coaster type of earthquake.” They are conducting assessments throughout the area but noted that compared to past earthquakes, the damage appears manageable this time.

The City Manager expressed relief, stating, “I think we got tremendously lucky. This earthquake could’ve been more damaging, more significant.” City officials are encouraging residents and business owners to report any damages sustained during the earthquake to facilitate the recovery process. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries, highlighting a narrow escape amid a potentially devastating natural event.

The article discusses the impact and aftermath of a significant 7.0 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Humboldt County, California, revealing the challenges faced by local residents and businesses in recovering from the quake’s effects. It illustrates the emotional and physical toll on the community while emphasizing the relative luck in avoiding more extensive devastation and injuries.

In summary, Humboldt County endured a substantial earthquake, leading to extensive damage yet resulting in minimal injuries. The community demonstrated resilience as it commenced cleanup and restoration efforts. Despite the earthquake’s intensity, local officials and residents expressed relief at the limited severity of the damage compared to previous seismic events in the area, reinforcing the need for preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Original Source: abc7news.com