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Earthquake, Oregon Coast, Richter scale, Tsunami, Bandon
Earthquake Shakes Oregon Coast, Tsunami Warning Lifted
5.1-Magnitude Quake Strikes Near Bandon, Oregon
A 5.1-magnitude earthquake shook the Oregon coast near Bandon on Saturday evening, prompting a brief tsunami warning that was later lifted. The quake struck at 7:31 p.m. Pacific time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Epicenter Located Offshore
The epicenter of the quake was located about 23 miles west-northwest of Bandon, at a depth of about 7 miles. The quake was felt as far away as Portland, about 130 miles to the north.
According to the USGS, the quake was caused by the movement of the Juan de Fuca Plate, which is slowly sliding beneath the North American Plate. This type of movement is common in the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which stretches from northern California to southern British Columbia.
No Injuries or Damage Reported
There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage from the quake. However, the Oregon Department of Transportation closed a section of Highway 101 near Bandon for safety inspections.
Tsunami Warning Lifted
The National Tsunami Warning Center initially issued a tsunami warning for the Oregon coast and northern California following the quake. However, the warning was lifted about an hour later after no tsunami activity was observed.
Aftershocks Possible
The USGS says that aftershocks are likely in the area of the quake for the next few days or weeks. Residents are advised to be prepared for additional shaking.