Tsunami Warning Issued After 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Alaska Coast
Alaska | July 16, 2025:
A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck south of Sand Point, Alaska at 12:38 PM AKDT on Wednesday, triggering a tsunami warning for parts of the southern Alaska coast and the Alaska Peninsula.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred at a depth of 12 miles (19 kilometers) and was centered approximately 55 miles south of Sand Point. The National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) issued a warning for a broad coastal stretch from Kennedy Entrance (about 40 miles southwest of Homer) to Unimak Pass (around 80 miles northeast of Unalaska).
Potential Tsunami Impact Timeline (Local Time – AKDT):
- Sand Point: Possible tsunami activity by 1:30 PM
- Cold Bay: Potential impact by 2:25 PM
- Kodiak: Expected wave activity by 2:40 PM
As of the latest update, no tsunami waves have been confirmed. However, officials are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents in the warning zones to act with extreme caution.
Public Safety Advisory:
Authorities have issued the following urgent guidance:
- Stay away from the coast, including beaches, harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets.
- Do not enter the water until local authorities declare it safe.
- If you feel a strong or prolonged earthquake, immediately move to higher ground or inland, preferably on foot.
- Boaters should move to waters at least 180 feet (55 meters) deep if it is safe to do so. Avoid harbors and shallow coastal areas.
Warnings Against Risky Behavior:
Officials strongly urge residents not to gather near the coast to observe potential tsunami waves. A tsunami is not always a single waveโsubsequent waves may be larger and more dangerous than the first. Hazardous conditions such as strong currents and rapid coastal flooding can persist for hours or even days.
Tsunami Warning Signs โ Be Alert to Nature:
- Rapidly receding ocean water
- Unusual or loud roaring sounds from the sea
- Sudden, unexpected strong currents or surging water
- A visible wall of water approaching
If any of these signs are observed, evacuate immediatelyโeven if an official warning has not yet been issued.
Ongoing Monitoring:
Emergency management teams and geoscience agencies are actively monitoring the situation. Residents are advised to stay tuned to updates from the National Weather Service, local emergency services, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Summary:
A magnitude 7.3 earthquake has prompted tsunami warnings for parts of southern Alaska. While no tsunami waves have been detected so far, authorities stress the need for vigilance, prompt evacuation if needed, and strict adherence to safety instructions.
This remains a developing situation.
