Sand Point, Alaska – A powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck 55 miles south of Sand Point on Wednesday afternoon, triggering an ongoing tsunami warning for Alaska’s coastal communities and raising concerns along the greater U.S. West Coast.
According to the National Tsunami Warning Center, the quake occurred at 12:37 p.m. AKDT at a depth of 20 kilometers. The tsunami warning remains in effect for Alaska from Kennedy Entrance (near Homer) to Unimak Pass (near Unalaska), with the greatest risk of dangerous coastal flooding and strong currents expected for the Alaska Peninsula and Aleutian chain.
Officials urge residents in Sand Point, King Cove, Cold Bay, Kodiak, and all coastal areas under warning to evacuate to higher ground and stay away from beaches and harbors. Alaska DOT has closed access to vulnerable roadways, and shelters remain open for those seeking safety. Utilities crews are on alert for possible flood impacts.
At this time, the tsunami warning does not include California, Oregon, Washington, or British Columbia. Emergency officials in those regions are monitoring the situation closely. Residents outside Alaska are advised to follow updates from the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center at tsunami.gov for the latest information.
A tsunami with significant inundation remains possible for hours after the first wave. If you are in the warning zone, pack essentials, charge phones, and follow all evacuation orders. More updates are expected within 30 minutes, or sooner if conditions change.
