Sterling, Alaska – A 3.6 magnitude earthquake struck 31 kilometers northeast of Sterling on Thursday morning, prompting light shaking reports across parts of the central Kenai Peninsula.
According to the Alaska Earthquake Center, the quake occurred at 10:51 a.m. AKST (19:51 UTC) at a depth of 32.7 kilometers. The event has been reviewed by seismologists.
The epicenter was located northeast of Sterling, a community along the Sterling Highway between Soldotna and Cooper Landing. Initial data shows the quake registered at magnitude 3.6, a level typically capable of producing light shaking but minimal structural damage.
The U.S. Geological Survey’s community reporting tool indicated limited felt reports shortly after the tremor. No injuries or damage were immediately reported as of Thursday afternoon.
Earthquakes of this size are common in Southcentral Alaska, one of the most seismically active regions in the United States. Activity in the area is largely driven by tectonic movement along the boundary where the Pacific Plate subducts beneath the North American Plate.
While moderate in strength, quakes at depths greater than 30 kilometers often produce broader but weaker surface shaking compared to shallow events.
Residents along the Sterling Highway corridor and surrounding rural areas may have experienced brief movement lasting a few seconds. Even minor shaking can be noticeable in schools, offices, and for drivers stopped at intersections.
Officials continue to monitor seismic activity in the region. No aftershocks of significance had been reported as of Thursday.
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