A strong earthquake shook parts of southern Alaska on Tuesday, causing people to leave their homes and move to higher ground. The earthquake measured 7.3 on the Richter scale and happened around 12:37 p.m. local time, near a town called Sand Point.
At first, officials issued a tsunami warning, which meant people near the coast were told to evacuate in case large waves followed the quake. Towns like Unalaska, Kodiak, and King Cove were affected. Sirens went off, and many people rushed to safety, unsure of what was coming.
Small Waves Detected, No Major Tsunami
After the quake, scientists checked ocean levels and saw only small waves, about a few inches high. Because there was no major rise in the water, the tsunami warning was later canceled.
People Felt Strong Shaking
Residents in several towns reported strong shaking that lasted around 30 seconds. Some stores had items fall off shelves, but so far, there have been no reports of serious damage or injuries.
One person said the shaking made the whole building feel like it was rolling, not just shaking.
Earthquakes Common in Alaska
Alaska has many earthquakes because it sits on a part of the Earth’s crust that moves a lot, called the Ring of Fire. This area often has both earthquakes and volcanoes.
This is the fifth strong earthquake in this part of Alaska since 2020.
No Threat to the Lower U.S. States
Even though Alaska had a tsunami warning, officials said there was no danger to places like California, Oregon, Washington, or Hawaii.
Experts say aftershocks—smaller earthquakes that follow big ones—may still happen. People in the area are being told to stay alert, just in case.
