US: Northern Alaska hit by series of earthquakes August 12

Event

A 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck northern Alaska state at 06:58 (local time) on Sunday, August 12. The epicenter was located in a remote area 52 mi (83.7 km) southwest of Kaktovic (the nearest community) and 342.9 mi (551 km) northeast of Fairbanks. A series of smaller quakes followed throughout the morning. No damages or casualties have been reported, and no tsunami warning was issued. Further information is available on the Alaska Earthquake Center website.

Context

The Pacific Coast of the United States, including Alaska, lies within the active seismic zone known as "the Pacific Ring of Fire." The state of Alaska experiences more earthquakes than any other region in the United States, however, damages and casualties are relatively rare due largely to the state's low population density. In 1964, a 9.2 earthquake struck southern Alaska, leaving over 130 people dead; it was the second-largest earthquake ever recorded worldwide.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, and heed any potential instructions issued by local authorities. In the event of earthquakes, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows and exterior walls, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.