7.2 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Alaska: Tsunami Advisory Lifted—What You Need to Know

A tsunami advisory for Alaska’s southern peninsula has been lifted following a strong 7.2 magnitude earthquake. This quake struck about 50 miles south of Sand Point at around 12:38 p.m. local time on Wednesday.

After the tremor, residents in Seward quickly moved to higher ground as a precaution. Thankfully, the U.S. Coast Guard reported that the threat had passed and evacuated its Kodiak base personnel to safety.

Initially, a tsunami warning was issued but later updated to an advisory. This means people should stay away from beaches and waterways, though large waves were not expected. Dave Snider from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) stated that because the quake occurred in shallow waters, a major inundation was unlikely. The quake’s depth was about 12 miles.

Areas affected included the Kennedy Entrance and Unimak Pass. While minor sea level changes were possible, there was no danger to Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city.

Interestingly, earlier that day, a smaller magnitude 5.2 earthquake was reported near Atka Island. Alaska’s southern coast is part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region known for seismic activity. The most powerful quake in North American history occurred here in March 1964, measuring 9.2 and leading to a devastating tsunami that resulted in over 250 fatalities.

Social media reactions showed people sharing their evacuation experiences, highlighting the community’s preparedness in such situations. This recent quake and earlier seismic events serve as reminders of the area’s geological vulnerability.

For more details on earthquake safety and preparedness, you can visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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Tsunami Warning, Alaska