Magnitude 7.3 earthquake recorded off Alaska coast; tsunami warning issued
The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the earthquake off Sand Point, Popof Island, which is located in the center of the Alaska Peninsula, at just after 12:30 p.m. local time.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a tsunami warning for the majority of the Alaska Peninsula, spanning up into the southern-most part of Alaska's mainland toward Anchorage.
A major earthquake, capable of causing "serious damage," is considered having a magnitude between 7.0-7.9, according to Michigan Technological University. Only about 10-15 earthquakes of this caliber are reported each year.
This is a developing story.
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Earlier this month, during a confirmation hearing, Dr. Neil Jacobs, President Donald Trump's nominee to head NOAA, said he supports the administration's proposal to significantly cut the agency's budget arguing the reductions could be achieved by shifting work from research to operations without impacting "mission essential functions." Jacobs also said if confirmed, he would "ensure that staffing the weather service offices is a top priority," adding that, "It's really important for the people to be there because they have relationships with the people in the local community. They're a trusted source." NOAA's 2025 budget costs Americans less than $20 per person this year.
