A tsunami warning was issued for portions of Alaska’s southern peninsula on Tuesday after a strong 7.3 magnitude earthquake occurred off the state’s southern coast.
The U.S. Geological Survey reports that the earthquake happened approximately 54 miles south of Sand Point at 4:30 p.m. EST. Concerned about potential waves along the coastline, the National Weather Service promptly issued a tsunami warning.
NOAA published a map of the impacted areas, emphasizing areas of the Alaska Peninsula that were at risk of tsunamis.
The Alaska Peninsula Wildlife National Preserve and a number of small coastal communities are located within the sparsely populated region.
A state emergency management spokesperson stated, “We’re treating this seriously, but we’ve had other earthquakes in the area that didn’t generate significant tsunami waves.” “We’re ensuring that communities are informed and prepared to evacuate in the event that it becomes necessary.”
An hour or so after the earthquake, no damage or tsunami activity was reported. Authorities kept a careful eye on the situation.
The tsunami warning was soon downgraded to an advisory, indicating a lower level of threat but still requiring caution.
