Large-scale earthquake, measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale, shakes an Alaskan island, triggering a tsunami alert.
On July 16, 2025, a powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck offshore the Alaska Peninsula region, about 55 miles south of Sand Point, Alaska. The quake, which occurred at a depth of approximately 12 to 22 miles below the ocean surface, was widely felt across Alaska, from Anchorage to Juneau, with the strongest shaking reported in Sand Point.
Initially, a tsunami warning was issued by NOAA for coastal areas extending from Kennedy Entrance to Unimak Pass, encompassing the cities of Sand Point, Cold Bay, and Kodiak. The first tsunami waves were expected to arrive at Sand Point around 1:30 p.m. local time, followed by Cold Bay at 2:25 p.m., and Kodiak at 2:40 p.m.
However, the tsunami warning was later downgraded to a tsunami advisory after confirmation that the tsunami generated would cause some impact but not large, widespread destructive waves or significant inundation along the southwestern Alaska coastline. Authorities urged coastal residents in the warning area to evacuate to higher ground immediately, given the potentially dangerous nature of tsunami waves and the possibility that the first wave may not be the largest.
Despite being under the initial tsunami warning, Cold Bay, located 100 feet above sea level, is not currently concerned. The tsunami advisory remains in effect for the areas mentioned, including Kodiak, where the expected arrival of any impacts is approximately 2:40 p.m.
Sand Point, located on northwestern Popof Island, off the Alaska Peninsula, has reported no significant damage. Michael Ashley of Cold Bay Lodge, who felt the earthquake while working outside, described it as not very intense. There have not been any reports of damage from the earthquake in Kodiak, according to police.
The Alaska-Aleutian Megathrust, where the earthquake occurred, is a seismically active region known for frequent large quakes, including a major M7.8 event in 2020 in the same area. Aftershocks have continued following the 7.3 quake, with dozens detected within hours and further strong aftershocks possible in the coming week.
The National Weather Service issued a tsunami warning after the earthquake, which was later downgraded to an advisory. The tsunami advisory is in effect on the Pacific Coast, from South Alaska to Kennedy Entrance and Unimak Pass. Residents are advised to stay informed and follow any instructions from local authorities.
- The general news on July 16, 2025, also included updates about potential accidents related to tsunami waves following a 7.3 magnitude earthquake offshore the Alaska Peninsula.
- Besides the earthquake-related news, there were weather-related alerts issued as well, with the National Weather Service announcing a tsunami advisory along the Pacific Coast from South Alaska to Kennedy Entrance and Unimak Pass.
