Powerful earthquake jolts Alaska, triggers brief Tsunami alert

A strong earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.3 struck off the coast of Alaska on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a brief tsunami warning for parts of the state’s Pacific shoreline.

The quake occurred south of Sand Point, along the Aleutian Islands—a region known for its seismic and volcanic activity. The National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) initially issued a tsunami warning, later downgraded it to an advisory, and ultimately canceled it at 2:42 p.m. Alaska Daylight Time.

A small tsunami wave, measuring approximately 0.2 feet, was recorded at Sand Point. While shaking was felt in Anchorage, the city was not under threat from the tsunami.

“Tsunami impacts were minimal, but out of caution, residents are advised to stay clear of the coast, including harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets, due to the potential for lingering water-level fluctuations,” the NTWC said.

Following the quake, several deep-sea buoys off Alaska’s coast entered “tsunami mode,” signaling wave activity consistent with tsunami generation.

No immediate reports of injuries or significant damage were available at press time. Officials continue to monitor the area for aftershocks.

The Aleutian region, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences seismic activity due to the complex interaction of tectonic plates beneath the ocean floor.