The earthquake occurred at approximately 12:37pm local time (2037 GMT), with its epicenter located about 54 miles (87 kilometers) south of Sand Point, at a depth of 20.1 kilometers, as reported by the USGS.
Tsunami Warning Withdrawn
Authorities initially issued a tsunami warning, which was then reduced to an advisory and eventually canceled.
“The Tsunami Advisory has been canceled for the coastal areas of South Alaska and the Alaska Peninsula,” announced the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) two hours after the earthquake.
The initial earthquake was followed by over a dozen aftershocks, with the strongest measuring 5.2 on the magnitude scale, stated the USGS.
A small tsunami, reaching a maximum height of 0.2 feet (6.1 centimeters), was recorded at Sand Point.
People Advised to Move Away from Water
The NTWC had previously issued an advisory for coastal regions of South Alaska and the Alaska Peninsula, suggesting residents move away from bodies of water such as beaches, harbors, marinas, and inlets.
“Do not return to hazard zones until local emergency officials indicate it is safe,” the NTWC advised.
In July 2023, a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck off the Alaska Peninsula, part of the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, without causing significant damage.
Edited by: John Silk
