Akutan, Alaska – A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck 62 kilometers south of Akutan early Friday afternoon, shaking parts of the central Aleutian Islands but causing no immediate reports of damage or injury. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake at 76 kilometers deep, centered beneath the Pacific waters off the Alaskan Peninsula.
According to the USGS, the tremor was felt lightly across nearby islands, including Unalaska and Atka, with intensity levels estimated at III on the community shake map. No tsunami warning was issued by the U.S. Tsunami Warning Center, as the quake’s depth and offshore location reduced the likelihood of surface wave generation.
Residents along the Aleutian chain are urged to remain alert for aftershocks. The USGS estimates a 74% chance of at least one aftershock of magnitude 3.0 or higher within the coming week, though stronger activity remains unlikely.
Authorities continue to monitor the region’s seismic activity, and updates will be released if conditions change. Alaska averages thousands of small quakes annually, but Friday’s tremor serves as a reminder to keep emergency kits stocked and review earthquake safety plans.
Warnings remain in effect for possible minor aftershocks through next week.
