Sand Point, Alaska – Residents along Alaska’s Aleutian coast are under a tsunami warning tonight after a powerful 7.2 earthquake struck just 50 miles south of Sand Point Wednesday afternoon, shaking the region and triggering urgent evacuation orders from local emergency agencies.
According to the National Tsunami Warning Center, the earthquake was recorded at 3:37 p.m. local time with a depth of 22 miles and has prompted a red-level tsunami warning for much of the Alaska Peninsula, including Sand Point, King Cove, Cold Bay, and Kodiak. Authorities urge anyone in low-lying coastal areas to move to higher ground immediately and stay away from beaches and harbors until the all-clear is given.
Communities from Unalaska to Kodiak have sounded sirens and opened emergency shelters as a precaution. The Alaska Department of Transportation has closed access to key harbor roads and is assisting with evacuations. Utilities crews are monitoring critical infrastructure for any signs of damage, though power remains on in most areas.
Residents should pack essentials, charge phones, and follow instructions from local emergency management. If you are within the warning zone, avoid all coastal roads and waterfronts until further notice. This tsunami warning marks Alaska’s most significant coastal threat since the 2021 Chignik quake.
Tsunami advisories remain in effect through tonight, with updates to follow as new data becomes available.
