HUMBOLDT COUNTY, Calif. — Governor Gavin Newsom made an emergency declaration after a devastating earthquake struck Humboldt County early Tuesday morning.
The declaration is meant to improve aid and response as communities recover from the earthquake. At a magnitude of 6.4, the earthquake was felt as far as Sacramento, Foresthill and even Modesto.
While the valley communities felt some shaking, the quake left two people dead and multiple injured in Humboldt County.
It also caused power outages and damage to roads, bridges, buildings, water lines and gas lines. It also caused a closure at Fernbridge on Highway 211. Caltrans said the bridge will remained closed overnight as inspections continue.
Power outages are also continuing. Initially 70,00 customers were left in the dark after the quake, but PG&E crews have been able to restore power to about 40,000 customers so far.
Newsom's move will allow Humboldt County to access resources under the California Disasters Assistance Act, direct Caltrans to request help through the Federal Highway Administration's Emergency Relief Program, ease access to unemployment benefits for residents and more.
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