5.5 Magnitude Earthquake Hit Northern Alaska, 70 Miles From Kobuk City

Alaska, Kobuk – 5.5 magnitude earthquake hit Northern Alaska, 288 km from the city called Kotzebue or Kikiktagruk, in the state of Alaska.

The earthquake hit Alaska at around 23:53 (UTC) at a depth of 7.9 km.

The city where the earthquake occurred is the borough’s seat and the largest economic and transportation center. It has a small population, as do many places in Alaska, but it’s important for the region all the same. That makes this earthquake all the scarier, as it could have meant trouble for many in the remote wildlands of Alaska.

A geological survey showed the possible nearby places that could have been affected by the earthquake. Fortunately, there is just a little or no area affected by the earthquake.

However, the earthquake considered moderate caused very strong shaking. Any earthquake that people actually feel is going to frighten many, as it provides a sensation that the vast majority of people are not used to. However, this one was not strong enough to cause any serious problems in the city.

Magnitude of Alaska Earthquake

According to United States Geological Survey, the earthquake had a magnitude of 5.3, which means a slight damage to buildings and other structures. The risk of liquefaction is also very small, according to the professionals.

The latter means the soil loses its strength as a result of the ground shaking.

USGS says the 5.5. Magnitude earthquake caused only ‘’moderate ‘’ damage. The National Weather Service also said about the possibility of the earthquake to cause a tsunami.

According to them, no tsunami danger is expected from this earthquake.

The preliminary earthquake parameter according to NWS is of a depth of 13 miles, 70 miles north of Kobuk, Alaska.

The city is in Northwest Arctic Borough with the population of 151 up to 109 by 2000.