The Alaska Earthquake Today: In the early hours of July 17, a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake jolted southern Alaska, rattling homes and infrastructure across the region. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake struck near the Peninsula, a seismically active area known for frequent tectonic activity.
With its intense tremors felt miles away, the earthquake quickly prompted emergency alerts, potential tsunami warnings, and widespread public concern. Fortunately, early reports suggest minimal casualties—but the full picture is still emerging.
Where and When It Hit
The earthquake struck at approximately 1:45 AM local time, with epicenter located about 55 miles southwest of Sand Point. The tremor originated at a depth of 21 miles beneath the Earth’s surface—shallow enough to cause significant shaking above ground.
Anchorage, Kodiak Island, and even parts of British Columbia, Canada, reported Seismic waves.
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Immediate Impact of Alaska Earthquake
Early reports indicated no fatalities or major injuries, but the earthquake knocked out power, disrupted internet and phone lines. Cracks in roads and some structural damage in buildings were visible near the epicenter.
Tsunami Warnings and Evacuation Orders
Following the quake, the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) initially issued a tsunami advisory for parts of the Alaska Peninsula and Aleutian Islands. Sirens sounded in coastal communities, prompting precautionary evacuations to higher ground.
Ocean buoys detected minimal wave activity under 0.3 meters within two hours, lifting the advisory. No damage was reported from water surges.
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Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Emergency crews, including local fire departments and FEMA personnel, mobilized quickly to respond to the Alaska earthquake. Helicopter flyovers began at dawn to assess damage in remote areas. Medical facilities across the state stood on alert for potential injuries.
Alaska: Highly prone to Earthquakes
Earthquakes and volcanic activity occur regularly in the Pacific Ring of Fire, where Alaska is located. The region has a history of significant seismic occurrences, such as the 1964 Alaska Earthquake.
The 1964 Alaska Earthquake also known as the ‘Good Friday Earthquake’, occurred on March 27, 1964, with a magnitude of 9.2, making it the the second strongest worldwide. Thousands of injuries and extensive damage to infrastructure were reported in the 1964 Alaska earthquake, which resulted in approximately 131 deaths.
