ALASKA EARTHQUAKE: Tsunami Advisory Issued After 7.3-Magnitude Quake Shakes Aleutian Coast
Anchorage, Alaska
A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast of Alaska on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a tsunami advisory and swift evacuations across coastal communities. Though no major tsunami materialized, the quake served as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic threats.
The Quake: A Powerful Jolt Beneath the Sea
The earthquake struck at 12:37 p.m. AKDT, with the epicenter located approximately 54 miles southeast of Sand Point, at a depth of roughly 10 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Tremors were felt across a wide swath of southern Alaska, including the city of Anchorage, nearly 600 miles away, though no immediate structural damage or casualties were reported.
Tsunami Advisory Timeline: From Warning to All Clear
Initial Warning: The National Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami warning for coastal regions stretching from Unimak Pass to Kennedy Entrance, including the Kodiak Archipelago.
Downgrade to Advisory: Within an hour, the alert was downgraded to a tsunami advisory, with officials urging residents to stay away from harbors and beaches.
Waves Recorded: A small tsunami—measuring about 3 inches (0.2 feet)—was recorded in Sand Point. No widespread inundation occurred.
Advisory Lifted: By 3:45 p.m., the advisory was canceled, and authorities confirmed there was no ongoing tsunami threat.
Evacuations and Emergency Response
Several coastal communities, including King Cove, Cold Bay, and Unalaska, activated evacuation protocols, encouraging residents to move to higher ground or interior zones.
The U.S. Coast Guard temporarily evacuated personnel from Kodiak Island facilities, but operations resumed after the advisory was lifted.
Authorities reported over 20 aftershocks in the following hours, with magnitudes ranging from 3.5 to 5.2.
Seismic Context: Alaska’s Ring of Fire Risks
Alaska sits atop the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most seismically active zones. The region experiences thousands of earthquakes each year, many of which go unnoticed. However, larger quakes—especially offshore—can pose significant tsunami threats.
“This event is a reminder that coastal residents must stay alert and know their evacuation routes,” said Dr. Emily Warren, a geophysicist with the Alaska Earthquake Center.
Looking Ahead: Preparedness and Vigilance
While no lives were lost, experts emphasize that the quick issuance of warnings and efficient community response helped prevent potential tragedy.
Residents are advised to:
Keep emergency kits prepared.
Sign up for NOAA tsunami alerts.
Review evacuation routes and local response plans.
Magnitude: 7.3
Location: Southeast of Sand Point, Alaska
Depth: Approx. 10 miles
Tsunami: Minor wave recorded, advisory lifted
Impact: No major damage; evacuations successful
Next Steps: Continued monitoring of aftershocks, emergency readiness reinforced
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