Alaska — The Alaska Earthquake Center reported a busy week of seismic activity, recording almost 500 earthquakes across the state. According to officials, only five of these quakes were felt by residents. The strongest was a magnitude 5.8 earthquake that occurred west of Adak on November 22.
Anniversary of Two Major Alaska Quakes
This week also marks the anniversary of two significant earthquakes in Alaska’s history. On November 30, the state remembers:
- The magnitude 7.9 Gulf of Alaska earthquake in 1987
- The magnitude 7.1 Anchorage earthquake in 2018
These events are a reminder that southern Alaska is one of the most active earthquake zones in the world. The region lies where the Pacific Plate pushes against the North American Plate, exerting continuous pressure on Earth’s crust. Over years and decades, this pressure builds until the rocks break, triggering large earthquakes.
In coastal areas, such major quakes can also generate tsunamis.
Also Read: Massive Landslide In Southeast Alaska Sparks Small Tsunami
A Century of Powerful Quakes
The Earthquake Center notes that Alaska has experienced 60 earthquakes of magnitude seven or higher in the last 100 years. Of these, 56 occurred along the southern margin, although most happened far from large population centers.
Preparedness Still Key
While scientists still cannot predict precisely when earthquakes will strike, the long history of seismic activity in Alaska helps communities stay prepared and aware of potential risks. Check out the details of some of the past notable earthquakes on earthquake.alaska.edu.
