Magnitude 8.2 Earthquake Strikes Near Alaska, Producing a Small Tsunami

Numerous earthquakes, the largest recording at 8.2 magnitude, detected off the coast of Alaska, on July 29, 2021. Screenshot/USGS

A magnitude 8.2 earthquake and numerous aftershocks struck off the Alaskan Peninsula late Wednesday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). A tsunami warning was triggered.

The quake struck at 10:15 p.m. local time 91 kilometers (56.5 miles) southeast of Perryville, Alaska, with an epicenter of 46.7 kilometers (29 miles) depth, the geological survey reported.

Shortly following the quake, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a tsunami warning that covers South Alaska and the Alaska Peninsula Pacific coasts, from Hinchinbrook Entrance to the Unimak Pass, as well as the Aleutian Islands, from the Unimak Pass to the Samalga Pass.

The National Tsunami Warning Center canceled the warnings early Thursday when the biggest wave, of just over a half foot, was recorded in Old Harbor. A tsunami watch that also had been issued for Hawaii was canceled, and officials said there was no threat to Guam, American Samoa or the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands.

Residents reported only minor damage, but officials said that could change after sunrise and people get a better look.

Residents are advised to visit tsunami.gov for updated information.

The Associated Press contributed to this report