Residents along Alaska’s southern coast are on high alert after a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Sand Point, setting off a tsunami advisory. If you’re in Alaska—or have loved ones there—here’s what you need to know to stay informed and safe.
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What Happened: Alaska Earthquake Today
On July 16, 2025, at 12:38 PM AKDT, a massive earthquake rattled the area 55 miles south of Sand Point, Alaska. The quake struck at a depth of 12 miles beneath the ocean floor, according to the Alaska Earthquake Center and the NWS Tsunami Warning Center.
A TSUNAMI ADVISORY IS NOW IN EFFECT…
A TSUNAMI ADVISORY IS NOW IN EFFECT…
— NWS Tsunami Alerts (@NWS_NTWC) July 16, 2025
SOUTH ALASKA AND THE ALASKA PENINSULA,
Pacific coasts from
Kennedy Entrance, AK to Unimak
Pass, Alaska
Mag 7.3
* Origin Time 1238 AKDT Jul 16 2025
* Depth 12 miles
* Location 55 miles S of Sand Point, Alaska— NWS Tsunami Alerts (@NWS_NTWC) July 16, 2025
Tsunami Warning and Advisory: Who Is Affected?
Shortly after the earthquake, the NWS Tsunami Warning Center issued an advisory for the Alaska Peninsula’s Pacific coast. Communities from Kennedy Entrance to Unimak Pass are urged to stay vigilant. While this is not a full tsunami warning, a tsunami advisory means dangerous waves and currents are possible.
- Sand Point, Kodiak, and Homer are among the towns at risk.
- Residents along the south coast, including parts of Anchorage, should remain alert for updates.
- Tsunami advisories were not issued for Washington, California, or other West Coast states at this time.
Why Alaska Experiences So Many Earthquakes and Tsunamis
Alaska is famous for its raw, beautiful landscapes—but also for powerful earthquakes. The reason? It sits along the “Ring of Fire,” a chain of seismic activity that circles the Pacific Ocean. When the earth’s plates shift deep below the Aleutian Islands, it often triggers strong quakes and sometimes tsunamis.
The Alaska Earthquake Center regularly monitors these events. Did you know the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in North America happened in Alaska back in 1964? It’s a reminder of why local authorities take tsunami warnings seriously.
How a Tsunami Forms After an Earthquake
When a large section of the sea floor suddenly moves, it pushes tons of water up, creating waves that race toward the shore. For coastal towns like Sand Point, Alaska, a tsunami can arrive in minutes. This is why every second counts.
Don’t underestimate a “tsunami advisory”—even smaller waves can knock people off their feet or cause strong, unpredictable currents.
How to Stay Safe During a Tsunami Warning in Alaska
- Pay attention to local alerts: Follow the @NWS_NTWC for real-time updates and safety instructions.
- Move inland and to higher ground: If you’re near the coast and hear a tsunami siren, don’t wait—evacuate immediately.
- Avoid beaches and harbors: Even after the main threat, dangerous waves and currents can linger for hours.
- Stay tuned to official channels: Radio, TV, and NOAA weather radios are your most reliable sources during emergencies.
Have you ever practiced a tsunami drill? Many Alaskans have, and today’s event is a good reminder to review your emergency plans.
Tsunami Warning: What Is the Difference Between an Advisory and a Warning?
It’s easy to get confused by all the terms flooding your social media feed. So, what do they really mean?
- A Tsunami Advisory means strong currents and dangerous waves are possible.
- A Tsunami Warning means that a tsunami with widespread flooding is imminent or already occurring. Move to safety immediately!
Today’s event is a tsunami advisory, but conditions can change quickly. Authorities watch the data closely and will escalate warnings if needed.
Recent Alaska Earthquake and Tsunami Events
This isn’t the first time Alaska has had quake-related scares. Just last year, a milder tremor off the coast of Kodiak set off alerts, but the waves were minor. In 2021, Homer residents were evacuated briefly after an undersea quake. The fact is, being prepared saves lives.
Earthquake in Alaska Today: Social Media and Trending Hashtags
Looking for real-time updates? Social media is buzzing with the latest about Alaska earthquake today and tsunami warnings. Here are some ways to stay plugged in:
- Follow hashtags like #AlaskaTsunami, #EarthquakeAlaska, and #TsunamiWarning.
- Monitor the @NWS_NTWC Twitter page for live alerts.
- Join local Facebook groups for on-the-ground news in your area.
Alaska Tsunami 2025: Should You Be Worried?
If you’re far from the coast, you’re probably safe. But if you live in Sand Point, Homer, Kodiak, Anchorage, or anywhere on the Alaska Peninsula—stay alert and ready to act.
Tsunami warnings rarely extend as far as California, Seattle, or Washington for quakes of this size, but scientists continue to monitor every tremor for your safety.
Why Local Alerts Matter
Every minute after a quake counts. If you hear an alert—even if it wakes you up in the middle of the night—don’t ignore it. Pack an emergency kit, know your evacuation routes, and stay informed.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Alaska’s 7.3 earthquake reminds us all why disaster preparedness is important. Earthquakes and tsunamis may be a fact of life here, but with quick action and community support, we can weather the storm together.
Stay tuned for more updates and follow all official guidance from the Alaska Tsunami Warning Center. Your safety is priority one!
- Have a safety question? Share your tips and concerns in the comments below!
- Stay connected: Bookmark this blog for the latest on Alaska earthquakes and tsunami alerts.
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Remember: When the ground shakes, knowledge is your best defense. Stay safe, Alaska!
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