A powerful “8.2 magnitude earthquake” struck the Alaskan Peninsula late Wednesday, shaking the region and prompting widespread monitoring across the Pacific. The quake occurred at a depth of 35 km, about 91 km east-southeast of Perryville, raising immediate concerns about possible tsunami threats.
Tsunami sirens were activated in Kodiak and nearby coastal communities, leading to precautionary evacuations. The US National Tsunami Warning Center issued alerts for southern Alaska, covering coastal areas “from Hinchinbrook Entrance to Unimak Pass,” as officials worked to assess the risks.
Authorities reported that “no immediate damage or casualties were reported” following the quake. Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy confirmed the state’s emergency operations center was activated to coordinate response efforts and ensure readiness if conditions worsened.
Initial tsunami warnings were also issued for Hawaii and Guam, but these were later lifted after evaluations showed no significant danger. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, along with agencies in Japan and New Zealand, continued assessing potential impacts on their coastlines.
The US Geological Survey recorded at least eight aftershocks, including two above magnitude 6.0, signaling continued seismic activity. Officials said they will keep monitoring the situation and urged residents in coastal areas to “stay alert and follow official safety instructions” as updates are provided through emergency services and warning centers.