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When a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the North Coast on Thursday morning, staff at the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) in Alaska sprang into action, promptly issuing a tsunami warning for an estimated 5.3 million people in coastal communities across Northern California and southern Oregon. Hundreds – perhaps thousands – of Humboldt County residents fled their homes and offices in a chaotic search for higher ground, which led to gridlocked traffic on Highway 101 in Eureka.

After assessing tsunami forecast models and water levels from offshore buoys for about an hour, the NTWC determined that there was no threat of a tsunami on the West Coast and the warning was canceled at 11:55 a.m.

Humboldt County hasn’t experienced an earthquake of this magnitude since April 25, 1992, when a series of magnitude 7.2, 6.6 and 6.5 earthquakes struck the Cape of Mendocino, destroying dozens of homes in the Mattole and Eel River valleys. However, the magnitude of an earthquake clearly doesn’t always mean it’s more destructive. The 6.4 earthquake that occurred on Dec. 20, 2022, caused far more structural damage than yesterday’s quake, even though it was of a notably smaller magnitude.

[CLARIFICATION: As one of our readers points out in the comment section below, in June 2005, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck 80 miles west of Crescent City, prompting evacuations in low-lying areas. However, there were no reports of serious damage.]

In the hours that followed yesterday’s earthquake, some locals took to Facebook and other social media platforms to accuse the National Weather Service, public safety agencies and local media organizations of fear-mongering and blowing the whole thing out of proportion. 

“I was born and raised here,” one person wrote in our Facebook comment section. “I knew that quake was not strong enough to cause a tsunami large enough to cause mass hysteria and panic.”

Ryan Aylward, a warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Eureka, disputed the notion that the earthquake wasn’t “strong enough” to cause a tsunami, adding that the Tsunami Warning Center typically issues a tsunami warning following coastal earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 7.0 or greater.

“There was no doubt from anyone here that that earthquake was big enough to cause a tsunami. It wasn’t even a question,” Aylward told the Outpost in a phone interview. “It was a very real threat, and we’re just very thankful that it was a very small tsunami.”

When an earthquake occurs, the good people at the NTWC in Alaska assess the location and magnitude of the earthquake, as well as the region’s history of tsunamis, and decide whether an alert should be issued.

“We have the Cascadia [subduction zone] right off our coast, and we know that in 1992 an earthquake produced a tsunami at the cape there that was three feet,” Aylward said. “In this case, the first indication was that it was a magnitude 7.3 in about the same spot as 1992. So, in those first five minutes, they had to make a decision, and they made the decision to issue a warning because they felt a tsunami could be generated.”

After the tsunami warning was issued at 10:51 a.m., NTWC and NWS staff monitored wave activity from offshore buoys and tidal gauge stations at the North Spit of Humboldt Bay and up in Crescent City but, fortunately, no unusual activity was detected.

“We did detect a nine-centimeter wave in Point Arena in Mendocino County, but that was small enough that the tsunami warning center decided to cancel the warning about an hour later,” Aylward said. “It takes, you know, 10 to 20 minutes for the waves to arrive, and then you have to wait to see.  An hour is about how long it takes to analyze the waves and make a determination.”

The Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services (OES) issued its own tsunami warning about 45 minutes after the national alert. Asked what took so long, Emergency Services Program Manager Ryan Derby told the Outpost that the OES “must contact the appropriate agencies to verify if there is threat of a tsunami before a Humboldt Alert is sent out,” which “can take time.”

Not long after the tsunami warning was lifted, one of ALERTCalifornia’s cameras captured a video, as seen below, of Humboldt Bay appearing to recede, a possible indicator of an incoming tsunami.

“It does look like something happened, but we don’t know what. The folks at the California Geological Survey will be looking into that further, but my first guess is that it’s a seiche,” Aylward said, referring to a standing wave, typically caused by wind, that moves back and forth across a partially or fully enclosed body of water, such as a lake or bay. “We didn’t see anything at the tide gauge … but we really don’t know at this point.”

Asked how he felt about yesterday’s earthquake response, Aylward acknowledged the chaos that ensued on Highway 101 in downtown Eureka and on the Samoa Bridge when traffic was gridlocked and urged people to evacuate on foot.

“Yesterday, we saw lots of people driving and getting stuck in traffic, especially on Samoa Bridge. You don’t want to go through the tsunami zone to get to higher ground,” he said. “Knowing your evacuation route and knowing the closest place to where you live is really important. Someday a big tsunami is going to hit and people need to respond in the correct way and follow their evacuation routes, otherwise, they’ll get stuck in their car in traffic when the waves are arriving.”

And if you’re not in the tsunami zone, don’t evacuate. “If you’re, like, right on the edge of the zone and you’re not feeling comfortable, go ahead,” Aylward added. “But if you’re solidly out of the zone, you don’t have to leave.”

Not sure if your house is located in the tsunami zone? Check out the state’s interactive Tsunami Hazard Area Map – linked here. Additional resources can be found at the Redwood Coast Tsunami Work Group’s website and at ready.gov/earthquakes.

You can also check out this thread on X, formerly known as Twitter, from NWS Bay Area that goes over yesterday’s emergency response.

What did the Eureka city government learn from yesterday’s earthquake and tsunami warning? 

Basically: Too many people hopped into their cars and drove across town, or out of town, choking the roadways, instead of just walking across Fourth Street to safety.

How will the city address this problem?

Still to be determined, but city hall and emergency services are aware of it and are taking the first steps toward a solution.

How did Eureka City Manager Miles Slattery’s years as a teenage punk in San Diego County lead him to cross paths with Sublime, and influence his subsequent karaoke choices?

For that, you’re going to have to listen to the full episode of PICK a SONG, a new feature we’re running with DJ Chuck Rogers and our sister station, KWPT-FM (“The Point”). 

Eureka City Manager Miles Slattery picks a song. Dec. 6, 2024.

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Would you like to Pick a Song and chat about your day with Humboldt County? Drop us a line at news@lostcoastoutpost.com, and put “Pick a Song” in the subject line.

Earlier this morning, our colleague, DJ Chuck Rogers, checked in with Sen. Mike McGuire for a little chat about the Humboldt Holiday Food Drive, which is underway at local high schools, and of which our sister station KHUM (104.7 FM, or online) has long been a proud sponsor.

While they were at it, Rogers and McGuire recapped the response to yesterday’s big earthquake and agreed that it was a good drill, and blessedly not much worse than that.

Check out their conversation below. And don’t forget: The Holiday Food Drive culminating event/party happens Thursday, Dec. 12 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Eureka Safeway. There’ll be a secret special guest, looks like!

Robin Leanne Kuhnle, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away with loved ones by her side on November 5, 2024. She was born on October 19, 1948, in Eureka, to Albert Ross Kuhnle and Audrey Lee Kuhnle. She was the cherished sister of Gordon Kuhnle Sr.

Robin’s family history is steeped in rich heritage, with roots tracing back to L.K. Wood, a member of the expedition led by Captain Josiah Gregg that discovered Humboldt Bay in 1849. The Kuhnle lineage also extends to the American Revolution and to Betsy Ross.

Robin graduated from Eureka Senior High School in 1966, where she was an active member of the Loggerettes. She also participated in Frances Baribault’s charm school and was a contestant in the 1967 Miss Humboldt competition. Robin’s formative years were spent with the Winter and Pine families, creating lifelong memories through camping, motorcycle rides, drive-in movies and sleepovers.

A lover of learning, Robin studied French and journalism at College of the Redwoods and Humboldt State University. She married Ed Jarrell in 1973, and together they shared a life until their divorce in 1983.

Robin spent many summers at the family cabin in Willow Creek, where she and her loved ones gathered for camping trips, parties, and thrilling adventures down the Trinity River.

Robin’s generous spirit, quick wit and sense of humor made her a favorite among family and friends. Her love for others was boundless, and she was always ready to lend a hand or offer a laugh.

Though she thought motherhood might not be in her future, her son, Ross, was born on July 12, 1986, and became the light of her life. As a mother, Robin was loving, devoted, and endlessly proud of her son.

In her professional life, Robin worked at Sears before joining the family business, K & M Glass Co., in 1970. She later became vice president and, after her brother Gordon Sr. retired, president, until the company closed its doors in 2015.

Over the years, Robin was an active member of the community, participating in Eureka Main Street, Eureka Heritage Society, the Kinetic Sculpture Races, Quota Club, and chairing the Rutabaga Queen Contest for many years.

In the last 18 years of her life, Robin was blessed with the joy of being a grandmother to her three granddaughters — Fionna, Audrey, and Juliet Kuhnle. Her heart was full as she spent countless hours with them, from the day Fionna was born (a moment she cherished deeply) to weekends spent in Willow Creek, fun shopping trips, breakfasts at the Moose Lodge, and endless sleepovers. Being a grandmother was one of Robin’s greatest joys.

Robin leaves behind her loving son, Ross, and granddaughters Fionna, Audrey and Juliet. She also leaves behind her dear friends and extended family.

Robin is preceded in death by her parents, Ross and Audrey Kuhnle, her brother, Gordon Kuhnle Sr.; her aunt, Phyllis Kuhnle; her uncle and aunt, Stedman and Fay Winter; and her aunt and uncle Bearnice and Edward Kuhnle.

The family extends special thanks to the PACE program, Patricia Gallagher and Jeannie Johnson for their love and care during Robin’s final years. A celebration of Robin’s life will be held at a later date.

Arthur Henry Lange was born on July 14, 1943 to Fred and Lula Lange in Willamina, Oregon and unexpectedly passed away on November 9, 2024, in Eureka.

Art was a true and proud Navy man, entering the services at the young age of 17 years old. Art met Linda and soon they were married on December 5, 1964. Art and Linda traveled a lot across the states. Upon traveling they would often go to Crazy Horse, South Dakota and even make their way to Alaska. They loved attending pow-wows, especially Gathering of the Nations.

Art was an avid hunter, and you could always find him up in the hills Linda. Art had a passion for fishing. He took pride in his boat and was always out in the water. Art also had a love for cars, you could always find him at any car show, traveling all over the states entering car shows. One of his greatest prize possessions was his and Linda’s 1972 Mustang Mach 1, as they won many trophies for that car.

Art had a devotion as an antique collector with an eye for rocks, gold mining, Native American baskets and artwork, valuable Winchester guns and other knick-knacks.

Art started Pacific Northwest Builders, which was his own construction company that he built from the ground up, and worked many years throughout Humboldt County and neighboring counties, Art was always willing to teach and educate anyone and everyone with his knowledge of carpentry. Art was a proud member of the Local Carpenter’s Union Local 751; he worked on several bridges up until his retirement. Arthur was proceeded in death by the love of his life of 57 years Linda Lange.

Art leaves behind his son Terry (Betty) Lange, daughter Diana Morgan, his grandchildren Mathew Lange, Melody Wolff, James (Heather) Holdner, and Alicia Morgan along with several great grandchildren. Art also leaves behind special cousins Pauline, Jason, Jerry among other family members. A special thank you to Wonder Brothers Auto Body for a lifelong friendship.

A life celebration will be held on February 8, 2025, from 2-5 p.m. at the Wiyot Tribe, 1000 Wiyot Dr., Loleta, California (Please bring a dish and memories of Art to share).

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, David Vern Lovfald, on November 26, 2024.

Dave was born in Eureka on October 10, 1956 to Dorothy and Gerald Lovfald. On top of being well-liked by everyone who knew him, Dave was a natural athlete. He excelled in baseball and basketball but his true love was golf. After graduating from Eureka High School, he went on to play golf for Utah State where he still holds many records. He was a lifetime member of the PGA and went on to have a successful career in golf, winning numerous tournaments. He set the course record at the Eureka Municipal Golf Course and came very close to setting course records at various courses in California and Oregon as well. Anyone who had the pleasure of playing golf with Dave knows what a truly gifted golfer and great person Dave was. He had an uncanny shot-making ability that people talk about and will remember for years to come. Dave went on to become the head professional and retired from the Eureka Muni, where he worked for many years.

When he wasn’t at the golf course, Dave enjoyed walking the family’s dogs and gaming at the casinos.

Dave was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy and Gerald. He leaves his brothers Jeff and Steve (Sandy), along with his nieces Hannah, Tara, Cheyenne, Ariana and his nephew Brandon. Dave will be remembered and missed by many in the community.

There will be a celebration of life for Dave to be held at the Eureka Muni on Saturday, May 24 at 4 o’clock. Anyone who knew Dave is welcome to come and share their stories about their times with Dave.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Dave Lovfald’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.

Bary Leonard Jones passed away on November 27, 2024 after a short illness. He was born on December 23, 1956 at the old Scotia Hospital and grew up in Shively.

In his youth, Bary loved to fish and hunt. He was always bringing home plenty of fresh venison, quail, salmon, and steelhead. He also loved gardening. His summers were spent on the family 10-acre farm growing fruits and vegetables.

Bary worked for Pacific Lumber Company, and then for Schmidbauer Lumber. After his retirement, he made his home in Eureka. He loved living on the Waterfront and enjoyed his new found independence and the social activities there.

Bary was preceded in death by his Mom and Dad, Enoch (Bear Hunter) and Essie Jones. Bary is survived by his siblings, Stephen Jones, Patricia Bugbee (Bill) and Walter Jones. He leaves behind three nieces and two nephews: Samantha, Holly, Jessie, Luke, and Ivan; four great-nephews and one great-niece: Troy, Bearett, Alexis, Jason and Dax.

We will miss you, our Dear brother, uncle, and friend. We love you very much. We will see you again in Jehovah’s new world, when the earth becomes a Paradise. We have that promise and hope found at Revelation 21:4. It reads, “And God will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more. Neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.”

There will be a private family memorial held along the banks of the Eel River, amongst the Redwoods, a place that Bary truly loved.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Bary Jones’ loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.