30 Nov 2018 | 10:29 PM UTC
US: Recovery efforts ongoing near Anchorage (Alaska) after earthquakes Nov. 30 /update 3
Anchorage (Alaska) officials declare state of emergency as recovery efforts continue following multiple earthquakes November 30; transportation and power disruptions ongoing
Event
Local officials declared a state of emergency in Anchorage (Alaska) at approximately 11:10 (local time) as recovery efforts are ongoing after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck 13 km (8 mi) north of the city on the morning of Friday, November 30. A series of aftershocks have been felt in the area as of 11:00, with at least three recorded at a magnitude of 5.0 or higher. No injuries have been reported as of midday, but authorities have reported significant infrastructural damage. Up to 10,000 Municipal Light and Power customers are without power and efforts are ongoing to restore electricity to the area. Further aftershocks are likely in the coming hours and days.
Transportation disruptions continue to impact the greater Anchorage area as of Friday. Several roads and bridges are closed due to damage, including the Seward Highway (AK-1) which is closed near McHugh Creek due to a rockslide. The Glenn Highway is also closed north of Eagle River due to damage. Crews have been deployed to assess damages to roads and bridges. Alaska Railroad has suspended rail transportation services through December 2 due to earthquake damages. Flight disruptions are also expected to continue at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC). As of 12:30, some airlines have resumed operations while others have canceled all flights for at least the rest of the day. Residual flight disruptions are expected in the coming hours and days.
Context
A 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit 13 km (8 mi) from Anchorage at 08:29 on November 30, followed by several strong aftershocks. A tsunami warning was initially issued though no tsunami activity was recorded.
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska with approximately 41 percent of the state's population.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor the situation, prepare for aftershocks, anticipate road damage and transportation disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
During an earthquake, 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.
