US: A magnitude-5.9 offshore earthquake occurs off southeastern Alaska at around 22:46 Jan. 11

A magnitude-5.9 earthquake occurred in the northeastern Pacific Ocean off the coast of southeastern Alaska at around 22:46 Jan. 11. The epicenter was about 66 km (41 miles) southwest of Port Alexander. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 2 km (1 mile), and moderate shaking was probably felt in coastal areas close to the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout much of the Alaska Panhandle and into far northwestern British Columbia, Canada. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, minor damage is possible in areas close to the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light-to-moderate 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, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.