(The Center Square) – The National Weather Service now says there is no tsunami warning, advisory, watch or threat along parts of Alaska’s southern coast following a 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck off the state’s southern coast, near Sand Point, around 12:37 p.m. Wednesday, local time.
Sand Point is located on northwestern Popof Island, off the Alaska Peninsula. It’s approximately 600 miles southwest of Anchorage.
In response to the temblor, the National Weather Service in Anchorage initially posted on X: “A Tsunami Warning has been issued for the Alaska Peninsula areas from the Kennedy Entrance to Unimak Pass. Cities included are Cold Bay, Sand Point, and Kodiak. We can say with reasonable confidence that the Kenai Peninsula Borough locations will not see impacts.”
A tsunami warning indicates that a dangerous tsunami capable of causing widespread flooding is expected or is occurring.
A tsunami advisory indicates a tsunami with a potential for strong currents or waves dangerous to those in or near the water is expected or is occurring.
A tsunami watch means a tsunami is possible and that people in the affected area should be prepared to take action.
A tsunami threat means there is a potential for dangerous and destructive waves to hit coastal areas.
The initial warning covered a 700-mile stretch of Alaska’s coastline. Officials are urging residents in affected areas to remain alert near the coast.
The tsunami warning and advisory only applied to Alaska and did not at any point involve any other parts of the U.S. or Canadian Pacific coasts, including British Columbia, Washington, Oregon and California.
