Date: July 17, 2025
Location: Near Aleutian Islands, Alaska
In a significant geological event, a strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck off the coast of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska early Thursday morning, prompting the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) to issue tsunami warnings and advisories for coastal areas across southern Alaska and parts of western Canada.
What Happened?
At approximately 3:15 AM local time, seismic sensors recorded a major undersea earthquake about 55 miles southeast of Chignik, Alaska. The tremor originated at a shallow depth of around 10 km, increasing the risk of a tsunami due to the displacement of the ocean floor.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) and NTWC immediately assessed the quake and issued tsunami warnings for coastal areas, including:
- Kodiak Island
- Sand Point
- Cold Bay
- Chignik Lagoon
- Portions of British Columbia
Current Status
- Tsunami waves measuring up to 1.2 feet were recorded at several coastal stations.
- No immediate reports of widespread damage or casualties have surfaced.
- Residents in vulnerable zones were advised to evacuate to higher ground and avoid shorelines.
- The tsunami warning was downgraded to an advisory later in the morning as wave activity decreased.
What Authorities Are Saying
Alaska Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) urged residents to stay vigilant:
“Even minor tsunami waves can be dangerous. Do not return to low-lying areas until the official all-clear is given.”
Seismologist Dr. Linda Martinez from the USGS explained:
“The quake occurred along the subduction zone where the Pacific Plate dives under the North American Plate — an area prone to high-magnitude quakes.”
Safety Measures in Place
Local authorities activated tsunami sirens, and emergency SMS alerts were sent to thousands. Coast Guard stations were put on standby, and shelters opened in Kodiak and Sand Point. Schools and public buildings were closed temporarily as a precaution.
Global Reaction
Countries across the Pacific, including Japan, New Zealand, and parts of the US West Coast, monitored the event, but no significant tsunami threats were reported beyond Alaska and British Columbia.
Historical Context
This region has a long history of seismic activity. The 1964 Alaska earthquake (Magnitude 9.2) remains the most powerful in U.S. history, causing devastating tsunamis that reached as far as Hawaii and California.
Stay Updated
Authorities recommend following updates from:
- NTWC (www.tsunami.gov)
- USGS Earthquake Tracker
- Local news channels and government alerts
While today’s tsunami alert has been downgraded, the event serves as a powerful reminder of Alaska’s vulnerability to seismic hazards. Residents are urged to keep emergency kits ready, follow official guidance, and stay informed.
