Portland Rocked by Massive Earthquake, Hundreds of Buildings Damaged

Portland Rocked by Massive Earthquake, Hundreds of Buildings DamagedPortland Rocked by Massive Earthquake, Hundreds of Buildings Damaged Portland, Oregon, was shaken to its core as a powerful earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale struck the city in the early hours of the morning. The temblor, centered just outside the metropolitan area, sent shockwaves throughout the region, causing widespread damage and leaving hundreds of buildings compromised. According to preliminary reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at approximately 3:16 a.m. local time. Initial estimates suggest that hundreds of buildings have sustained structural damage, including high-rise apartments, historic landmarks, and critical infrastructure. The Portland Fire and Rescue Department has dispatched multiple crews to assess the damage and respond to reports of injuries. Several hospitals have reported an influx of patients seeking treatment for cuts, bruises, and more serious injuries. The most severe damage appears to be concentrated in the city’s downtown area, where numerous buildings have collapsed or have been severely weakened. The iconic Portland Building, which houses city offices, has reportedly sustained significant damage and is currently being evaluated for stability. Transportation infrastructure has also been affected. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has closed several major highways and bridges due to debris and damage. Public transportation has been suspended until further notice, and residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel. Governor Kate Brown has declared a state of emergency in Portland and has deployed the Oregon National Guard to assist with relief efforts. FEMA and other federal agencies are also responding to the disaster. Residents are being urged to remain calm and follow safety guidelines. They are advised to check their homes and buildings for damage and to evacuate if necessary, avoiding damaged areas and downed power lines. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and the recovery process is expected to take weeks or even months. Portland residents are now bracing themselves for aftershocks, which could potentially cause further harm.