Description: A powerful 7.3 earthquake hit near Sand Point, Alaska, triggering a tsunami warning for multiple coastal areas, including Anchorage and Kodiak. Get the latest updates on the Alaska tsunami warning, earthquake impact, and ongoing advisories.
Alaska Earthquake Today: What Happened?
In the early hours of July 17, 2025, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck off the southern coast of Alaska, near Sand Point in the Aleutian Islands. The tremor, felt across a large portion of the state, including Anchorage, Kodiak, and Homer, led to immediate concerns about a potential tsunami in Alaska.
The Alaska Earthquake Center confirmed the epicenter was located approximately 65 miles southeast of Sand Point, AK, at a depth of 21 miles. This seismic event is one of the strongest quakes to hit the region in recent years, rivaling the infamous Alaska earthquake 1964 in initial shockwaves, though with considerably less destruction.
Tsunami Warning Alaska: Is There a Tsunami in Alaska Today?
Following the quake, the Alaska Tsunami Warning Center quickly issued a tsunami warning for Alaska today, covering a broad area stretching from the Aleutian Islands to Kodiak Island, and extending towards Anchorage and Sand Point, Alaska.
Residents received alerts through TV, radio, and mobile devices with the warning:
“Tsunami warning: Move inland immediately. Avoid coastal areas.”
Shortly afterward, sirens were activated in Anchorage and surrounding coastal communities, and evacuations were ordered in tsunami-prone zones.
The National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) also issued a tsunami warning for Washington state and a tsunami advisory for California, reflecting the possible ripple effect across the Pacific Ocean. The warnings created urgency across the U.S. West Coast, though no major tsunami waves reached those southern states.
Real-Time Response in Alaska: How Communities Reacted
In Anchorage, Alaska, emergency services worked swiftly to guide residents to higher ground. Schools were closed, and major roads leading inland were opened to streamline evacuation efforts. In Sandpoint, Alaska, closest to the quake’s epicenter, emergency shelters were activated, and a coordinated response was launched by local authorities.
The Kodiak Island community, frequently on alert due to its location, took swift action as well. With memories of previous events like the 2021 tsunami advisory, residents didn’t take chances. Local authorities credited routine drills and preparedness training with the orderly evacuation process.
Tsunami Warning Today Live: What the Data Shows
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the 7.3 earthquake in Alaska today produced a series of aftershocks and triggered underwater landslides. This increased the chance of localized tsunami activity in Alaska, although no catastrophic waves were reported as of now.
Wave activity was detected near Homer, Alaska, and Kodiak, but water levels rose only about 1.5 to 2 feet, well below dangerous thresholds. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely for aftershocks or delayed tsunami surges.
To stay updated, the official live tsunami warning site provides real-time information on alerts and advisories across the Pacific.
Why Alaska is Earthquake and Tsunami-Prone
Alaska sits on the edge of the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, one of the most seismically active regions in the world. The Aleutian Trench, a major subduction zone, makes the state vulnerable to both powerful earthquakes and the tsunamis they can produce.
Historically, Alaska has seen devastating events like the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake, which triggered a massive tsunami, destroying entire towns and killing over 130 people. More recently, Sand Point, AK, and Anchorage have experienced multiple tremors, leading to frequent tsunami warnings in Alaska.
The Impact: Infrastructure and Public Safety
While no fatalities have been reported as of now, damage assessments are underway. Sand Point reported minor structural damage, including cracked roads, power outages, and waterline issues. In Anchorage, building inspections are ongoing to assess the risk of aftershocks.
Air travel was briefly suspended at Anchorage International Airport, and the Port of Anchorage implemented emergency protocols due to possible underwater seismic shifts.
Residents are being urged to stay off the coast until an official tsunami warning for Alaska today is lifted.
What to Do During a Tsunami Warning in Alaska
Officials from the Alaska Tsunami Warning Center and local emergency services recommend the following steps during a tsunami warning:
- Move inland and to higher ground immediately.
- Avoid beaches and harbors.
- Do not return until authorities declare the area safe.
- Stay informed via NOAA Weather Radio and official alerts.
- Keep an emergency kit with food, water, and medical supplies.
Aftershocks and Ongoing Seismic Activity
As with any large quake, residents can expect aftershocks. The Alaska Earthquake Center recorded at least 14 aftershocks within hours of the initial event, with magnitudes ranging from 3.1 to 5.6.
Residents are advised to remain alert, especially in Sand Point, Kodiak, and Anchorage, where secondary tremors could still pose risks.
Is This a Sign of Bigger Seismic Activity in 2025?
Seismologists are closely watching 2025’s rising earthquake activity. With several earthquakes today being reported globally, including in California and the Pacific Northwest, scientists warn that the tectonic stress in the Pacific Plate could be building toward more significant events.
The 7.3 earthquake in Alaska might not be isolated. Geologists stress the importance of long-term planning and infrastructure investment in earthquake-prone regions like Alaska.
Final Thoughts: Preparedness is Key
Today’s Alaska earthquake and tsunami warning is a stark reminder of the region’s geological volatility. Thanks to well-established protocols and swift responses from agencies, the damage appears to be minimal — but the danger remains.
For the residents of Sand Point, Anchorage, Kodiak, and beyond, preparedness saved lives today. As the earthquake in Alaska today proves, natural disasters strike with little warning, and being ready can make all the difference.
