Worldsfeed News Desk, 17 July, 2025:
A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck south of Sand Point, Alaska, on Wednesday afternoon, July 16, 2025, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake was centered off the Aleutian Islands, a highly seismically active region known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Rare Tsunami Warning Issued — Now Cancelled
The National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) issued an urgent tsunami warning for parts of Alaska’s Pacific coast, excluding Anchorage. The warning was later downgraded to a tsunami advisory and eventually canceled at 2:42 p.m. AKDT.
“A tsunami has been confirmed and some impacts are expected,” stated the [NTWC](https://www.tsunami.gov/” target=”_blank”).
A tsunami wave of 0.2 feet was observed at Sand Point, Alaska. Multiple ocean buoys entered ‘tsunami mode’, signaling abnormal wave activity.
Anchorage Felt Shaking, But No Tsunami Risk
Anchorage residents reported feeling the tremors, but the region was not included in the tsunami warning zone. Officials have urged the public to stay clear of coastal areas such as harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets, even after the official warnings are lifted.
Alaska’s Seismic Risk: Part of the Pacific Ring of Fire
Alaska lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the most earthquake-prone zones on Earth. The Aleutian subduction zone, where the Pacific Plate dives under the North American Plate, is responsible for many large earthquakes and tsunamis.
Safety Measures After Earthquake and Tsunami Warning
Authorities recommend the following aftershocks and wave surges:
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Stay away from coastal areas for several hours.
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Follow updates from [NTWC](https://www.tsunami.gov/” target=”_blank”) and [USGS](https://earthquake.usgs.gov/” target=”_blank”).
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Keep emergency kits ready in high-risk areas.
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Monitor real-time updates from [AccuWeather](https://www.accuweather.com/” target=”_blank”) and [National Weather Service](https://www.weather.gov/” target=”_blank”).
Summary
A rare tsunami warning was triggered by a magnitude 7.3 earthquake near Sand Point, Alaska. Although the tsunami alert has been canceled, local authorities continue to urge caution. This event is a stark reminder of Alaska’s position within the volatile Pacific Ring of Fire.
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