Updates: 6.4 earthquake hits Humboldt County
3:36 p.m
Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Rio Dell and Fortuna.
In a press release they recommend the following method:
“Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one (1) minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.”
There is potable water available in these locations:
Rio Dell Fire Hall – 50 West Center Street, Rio Dell
Rohner Park Pavilion – 9 Park Street, Fortuna.
2:47 p.m.
Fortuna police department Lieutenant Matthew A. Eberhardt in a press release said,
“The City of Fortuna has opened the Rohner Park Pavilion to those in need of a “charging center during this power outage. The pavilion is equipped with generator power, which is free to use to charge phones, tablets and necessary medical equipment during this time. Please dress warmly, as the pavilion is a large building and difficult to heat.”
2:10 p.m.
Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services said in a tweet, “Due to connectivity issues related to the emergency, the 2 pm #HumboldtEarthquake press conference will not be live streamed. A recorded copy will be published when available today on our social media platforms and website.”
1:45 p.m.
Cal Poly Humboldt
Cal Poly Humboldt sent out an email stating,
“Power has not been restored to the general area and campus remains closed to everyone but essential personnel.
Facilities Management has completed building checks and all infrastructure has been deemed safe.
No damage was recorded on campus and no injuries were reported.
The University is anticipating that power will be restored and campus will be prepared for normal operations beginning the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 21, unless additional notification is provided.
The J is providing food service until 6 p.m. today and device charging is available in the Jolly Giant Commons.
The Cashier’s Office will be open today for anyone who needs to pick up a paycheck today, 12/20 from 2-4 p.m. The Cashier’s Office will be temporarily located on the 1st floor of the SBS Building at the Main Entrance. You can reach staff at hsu-cash@humboldt.edu if you need additional assistance.”
Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office
Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) reports that 11 people have been reported as injured and 2 people have died as a result of medical emergencies occurring during and/or just following the earthquake.
HSCO says that damage assessments are currently underway, with significant structural damages, including gas and water lines, observed in the Rio Dell community and moderate damages to properties throughout the Eel River Valley.
They confirmed that the HCS Office of Emergency Services (OES) has been activated in response to this emergency and is coordinating with local, regional and state partners.
HCSO confirmed that the following roads are closed:
- Monument Road southwest of Rio Dell
- Tompkins Hill Road at Hookton Road
- Walnut Drive at Greenbriar Lane.
- SR 211 at Fernbridge
To keep up to date with road closures, check out quickmap.dot.ca.gov.
HCSOES reports that they are working with the Red Cross to establish a Local Assistance Center for impacted residents in the Eel River Valley.
Emergency Food
Those without meals or can’t cook hot meals can go to Cooper Gulch Recreation Center at 1720 10th Street, Eureka from 1:30 to 5 p.m. Where meals will be provided.
11:40 a.m.
Most Humboldt County residents and Cal Poly Humboldt are still without power.
Caltrans reports that Route 211 remains closed at Fernbridge due to bridge sustaining damages after the earthquake.
Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office will hold a press conference at 2 p.m. in Rio Dell City Hall. This meeting will only be for credentialed members of the media.
10:27 a.m.
At 2:34 a.m, a 6.4 earthquake struck the coast of Fortuna in Humboldt County on Dec. 20. According to Poweoutage.us, 71,395 customers are without power as of 10:27 a.m. Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services (OSE) recommends to not call 9-1-1 unless you are experiencing an immediate emergency.
If you have any water-related questions, check with your local water district.
If you have a gas leak or inquire about power restoration, contact P G & E at 1-800-743-5000.
El Leñador will be on standby for updates as more news unfolds.
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