Nikolski, Alaska – A powerful 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck off Alaska’s Aleutian coast by 5:11 a.m. Monday, jolting communities near Nikolski and prompting a tsunami information statement within minutes.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer, the quake hit about 93 kilometers southwest of Nikolski at a depth of roughly 14 kilometers. Officials confirmed a tsunami is not expected. The shaking followed a 5.5 magnitude earthquake at 10:02 a.m. UTC and several smaller tremors, including a 4.2 and 3.4, in the same offshore zone.
The strongest shaking was centered south of Nikolski, about 290 miles east of Adak, along a highly active stretch of the Aleutian subduction zone. ShakeMap data shows light to moderate intensity near the epicenter, with limited reports of damage. The USGS issued a green PAGER alert, indicating a low likelihood of significant structural losses or fatalities.
Emergency managers urge residents across the Aleutians to check for structural cracks, secure loose items and prepare for aftershocks. Forecasters estimate an 85% chance of at least one magnitude 3 or greater aftershock within the next week.
Seismic monitoring continues across southwest Alaska, and additional updates will be issued if conditions change.
