21 Sep 2023 | 01:48 AM UTC
US: Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs near the Alaska Peninsula, Alaska, at around 17:14 Sept. 20
Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs near Alaska Peninsula, Alaska, US, at 17:14 Sept. 20. No immediate reports of damage or casualties.
Event
A magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurred near the Alaska Peninsula in Alaska at around 17:14 Sept. 20. The epicenter was about 51 km (32 miles) south-southeast of Sand Point. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 24 km (15 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in most of the Alaska Peninsula. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible where shaking occurs.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
