We were just awakened by a very strong earthquake that struck near our feet here in Vallejo. The epicenter was located near American Canyon. We have lots of broken stuff and are shaken up badly.
Details to come.
Update: The earthquake was located near American Canyon in Napa County and has been initially registered at 6.1. Sirens are going off all around us and fire trucks are wailing.
All this broken glass and we can't find our broom!
Checking news outlets. There doesn't appear to be any major structural damage. There are, however, a lot of frayed nerves. This was a very strong tremor.
From SFGate
There was a report of some buckling on an off-ramp from westbound Highway 37 to Highway 29 at Sonoma Boulevard, and power lines down in western Contra Costa County, but Bay Area bridges appeared to be fine, according to the California Highway Patrol.
There were widespread reports of power outages, gas leaks and flooding in the North Bay, with at least 15,000 Pacific Gas and Electric Co. customers without power in Vallejo, Napa, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa and Sonoma. Police reminded motorists to stop at darkened intersections.
Since it is nearly 5:00 in the morning and I've only had a smidgeon of sleep, I'm headed back to bed. Most of the broken glass has been swept up now. We are still hearing sirens wail, but things appear to be calming down for the night. That was one hell of a rush, though.
Please Note: I changed the title of my diary to reflect that this wasn't a major earthquake. As Neapolitan noted below, earthquake classifications matter.
Morning Update: This all felt like a dream until we went out in the light of day this morning to inspect the house. Our chimney toppled onto our roof. That will be some big bucks for us.
Governor Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency. The city of Napa seems to have taken the worst hit. There was substantial damage to some beautiful old buildings. Downtown Vallejo also sustained damage.
After reading several news outlets, they all confirm that 90 people were injured in the quake with 3 in critical condition. One of those in critical condition is a child who was struck by a collapsed chimney.
To all of you who sent prayers and good vibes, I think I can speak for all of us who experienced the quake that we appreciate it very much.