A strong earthquake measuring magnitude over 7 on the Richter Scale struck coast of Northern California on Thursday (local time), according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The seismic activity occurred at 10.44 am (local time) in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 5.5 miles (9 kilometres) to the west of Ferndale, a modest coastal settlement in Humboldt County. Subsequently, the region experienced multiple minor aftershocks.
Powerful tremors were also recorded in various regions including Petrolia, Scotia and Cobb.
The National Tsunami Centre of the United States also issued a tsunami alert following the massive seismic event.
No fatalities, injuries or damage to property has been reported yet. More details are awaited.