Yakutat, AK – A powerful magnitude-7.0 earthquake that struck earlier today has been followed by a succession of aftershocks across the Yakutat region this evening, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The sequence sent multiple moderate jolts across northern Southeast Alaska between approximately 8:46 p.m. and 9:35 p.m. UTC, keeping seismic activity elevated through the evening hours.
According to USGS, the largest aftershock so far—a magnitude 5.1 quake—hit 88 km NNE of Yakutat at 8:51 p.m., registering light to moderate shaking on community intensity maps. Moments earlier, a magnitude 5.0 quake occurred 73 km N of Yakutat at 8:46 p.m., also producing a noticeable but localized impact.
Additional activity continued with a magnitude 4.7 at 96 km N of Yakutat just three minutes later, followed by a magnitude 4.3 at 113 km NNW of Yakutat around 9:04 p.m.. A smaller but still measurable magnitude 4.1 event occurred at 9:35 p.m., rounding out the aftershock cluster so far.
USGS categorized all events with “green” PAGER impact levels, indicating low likelihood of widespread damage or injuries. Depths ranged from roughly 3 km to 11 km, consistent with shallow crustal aftershocks typical of this region’s active fault systems. No tsunami advisories have been issued as of this evening.
Implications for the West Coast
Seismologists say today’s activity is a reminder that the Pacific Coast—from Alaska through Yukon and British Columbia—remains one interconnected seismic system. While the current sequence poses no tsunami threat, the energy release can alter stress patterns along neighboring faults, including portions of the Queen Charlotte–Fairweather Fault, one of the most seismically active structures on the continent.
Residents across coastal Alaska and western Canada are encouraged to remain aware of updates as scientists continue monitoring for any escalation or unusual seismic behavior following the M7 mainshock.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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