The original 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit mainly private homes and wealthier parts of the community, according to Rio Dell City Manager Kyle Knopp. But many low-income residents saw their homes destroyed during the second 5.4 magnitude earthquake that was centered in the small Humboldt County town. Those losses include over half of a 49-unit low-income apartment complex.
“In this event, it has definitely hit a poorer section of the community," he said. "One where people have fewer options.”
Knopp said an additional 41 homes have been condemned. He estimates at least 170 people are displaced between the two earthquakes. The Red Cross continues to provide an emergency shelter for residents without other housing options. The shelter is located at Monument Middle School, 95 Center St. in Rio Dell.
According to the Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services, over 70 structures have been deemed unsafe in total across the county.
Knopp said despite two major earthquakes, the region still hasn't met the damage threshold for federal assistance from FEMA.
“These formulas really are not conducive towards helping poorer, rural areas in the state of California or in Oregon that are directly impacted by these types of events," he said.
Knopp and other local leaders are meeting with state emergency officials this week to discuss housing options.
State officials are coming to the county to refine the damage assessments and determine financial losses. Knopp said as damage assessments continue, they may be able to qualify for federal assistance.
Residents are encouraged toreport earthquake damages to the county. Additional resources for recovery are available on the Humboldt County OES website.
