A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake shook the waters off southern Alaska on Wednesday afternoon, putting coastal communities on high alert as a tsunami warning quickly followed.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake hit around 12:37 p.m. local time, striking roughly 54 miles south of Sand Point, a small island town. It originated at a depth of about 20 kilometers (or just over 12 miles), which is considered relatively shallow—something that can amplify surface shaking and potential tsunami effects.
Soon after the tremor, the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC), based in Palmer, Alaska, issued a stark update: “A tsunami has been confirmed and some impacts are expected.” That warning applied to South Alaska and the Alaska Peninsula, covering Pacific coastlines from Kennedy Entrance—about 40 miles southwest of Homer—all the way to Unimak Pass, 80 miles northeast of Unalaska.
Fortunately, the center noted that, at this point, no other regions are under threat. “Based on all available data, a tsunami threat does not exist for other areas,” the NTWC added.
Alaska is no stranger to this kind of seismic activity. It sits on the notorious Pacific Ring of Fire, a massive horseshoe-shaped zone known for frequent and intense earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. This region regularly experiences shifting tectonic plates, and events like this are, while unsettling, not entirely out of the ordinary.
But the location and size of this quake definitely stirred memories for longtime Alaskans. Back in March 1964, the state was rocked by a 9.2-magnitude monster—still the most powerful quake ever recorded in North America. That one devastated Anchorage, wiped out entire towns, and triggered a tsunami that tore through the Gulf of Alaska, parts of the US West Coast, and even reached Hawaii. More than 250 people died in that disaster.
More recently, in July 2023, a 7.2-magnitude quake also hit off the Alaska Peninsula. While it caused some understandable anxiety, it didn’t result in major damage.
This time around, it’s still too early to know the full impact. As of now, no injuries or significant damage have been reported, but officials are urging residents to stay cautious and follow local alerts.
If you’re in the affected area, keep an ear out for updates from local emergency services and the NTWC. And remember, when it comes to tsunamis, it’s always better to play it safe—even if the warning turns out to be precautionary.