Powerful 7.3 Earthquake Strikes Off Alaska Coast, Triggers Tsunami Alert
A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake rattled the southern coast of Alaska on Tuesday, prompting a tsunami warning for portions of the state’s remote southern peninsula.
The quake struck around 4:30 p.m. EST, approximately 54 miles south of Sand Point, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremor was strong enough to trigger immediate concern among emergency officials and coastal residents alike.
The National Weather Service swiftly issued a tsunami warning, and maps from NOAA showed potential impact zones along the Alaska Peninsula, including areas near the Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge and several small coastal communities.
“We’ve had other quakes in this area that didn’t cause major waves,” said a state emergency spokesperson, “but we’re taking this one seriously. Notifications have gone out, and evacuation plans are in motion if needed.”
An hour after the initial quake, no damage or tsunami waves had been reported, though officials continued to monitor the situation in real-time. The warning was soon downgraded to an advisory, indicating a lower threat level—but urging ongoing caution.
Though sparsely populated, the region’s natural beauty and ecological significance made the seismic event one to watch closely as aftershocks and assessments continued into the evening.