Pelican, Alaska – A shallow magnitude 3.9 earthquake struck near Pelican early Friday morning, delivering light shaking across parts of Southeast Alaska but posing little risk of damage.
According to the Alaska Earthquake Center, the quake hit at 8:43 a.m. local time Friday, about 28 kilometers west-southwest of Pelican at a depth of just 0.9 kilometers. The shallow depth allowed the tremor to be felt more noticeably near the epicenter, though intensity remained low.
Residents in Pelican and nearby coastal communities may have experienced brief shaking lasting a few seconds. Initial community reports indicate weak intensity levels, with no immediate reports of structural damage, road impacts, or utility disruptions. The event registered as a Level III on community intensity maps, suggesting light shaking capable of rattling windows or small objects.
Seismologists note that shallow earthquakes like this can feel stronger than deeper events of similar magnitude, but a 3.9 typically does not produce widespread impacts. No tsunami threat was issued, and marine conditions remain unaffected.
Officials advise residents to remain aware of aftershocks, though any additional activity is expected to stay minor. Emergency management agencies continue monitoring the area, and updates will be issued if conditions change.
