Seismic activity in Alaska: analysis of the earthquake recorded in January

Alaska is known for being one of the most seismically active areas in the United States, constantly experiencing earthquakes of various magnitudes. The analysis of the earthquake in Alaska during January revealed intense seismic activity that alerted authorities and citizens to the frequency and strength of these natural phenomena in the region.

According to official data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), January 2025 was particularly active in terms of seismic movements, both in Alaska and other parts of the country.

Alaska: Epicenter of Intense Seismic Activity in January

During the last 24 hours of the reported period, 21 earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 2.5 Richter were recorded in North America and the Caribbean. Of these, 16 occurred in U.S. territories, including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Wyoming, Nevada, and California. Data from the Alaska earthquake showed activity particularly concentrated in the region.

The most significant earthquake was located 293 kilometers southeast of Attu Station, Alaska, with a magnitude of 5.0, recorded on January 23 at 08:25 UTC. Another substantial seismic event occurred 120 kilometers southeast of Sand Point, Alaska, with a magnitude of 5.2, on January 22 at 19:38 UTC.

On the U.S. mainland, the strongest quake was 40 kilometers south of Evanston, Wyoming, with a magnitude of 4.7, recorded on January 22 at 14:49 UTC.

Detailed USGS Seismic Record

The USGS Latest Earthquakes interactive map provided real-time updates on seismic movements. Specific data for the Alaska earthquake during this period include:

Seismic movements in Alaska:

• 57 kilometers south of Shungnak: magnitude 2.8 (January 23, 11:19 UTC)
• 71 kilometers northwest of Ninilchik: magnitude 2.5 (January 23, 09:55 UTC)
• 293 kilometers southeast of Attu Station: magnitude 5.0 (January 23, 08:25 UTC)
• 259 kilometers southeast of Chiniak: magnitude 3.1 (January 23, 08:08 UTC)
• 22 kilometers southeast of Kokhanok: magnitude 2.6 (January 23, 07:14 UTC)
• 145 kilometers southeast of Sand Point: magnitude 3.4 (January 23, 03:49 UTC)
• 32 kilometers south of Cantwell: magnitude 3.2 (January 23, 00:39 UTC)
• 120 kilometers southeast of Sand Point: magnitude 5.2 (January 22, 19:38 UTC)
• 19 kilometers northeast of Pedro Bay: magnitude 2.6 (January 22, 17:59 UTC)
• 22 kilometers northwest of Tatitlek: magnitude 3.2 (January 22, 15:53 UTC)
• 20 kilometers west of Clam Gulch: magnitude 2.8 (January 22, 14:14 UTC)

Seismic movements in other regions:

• 35 kilometers west of Gerlach, Nevada: magnitude 2.5 (January 23, 09:13 UTC)
• 5 kilometers southwest of Central Aguirre, Puerto Rico: magnitude 2.7 (January 23, 05:17 UTC)
• 70 kilometers west of Ferndale, California: magnitude 2.7 (January 23, 01:53 UTC)
• 41 kilometers southeast of Evanston, Wyoming: magnitude 3.0 (January 22, 18:22 UTC)
• 40 kilometers south of Evanston, Wyoming: magnitude 4.7 (January 22, 14:49 UTC)

Earthquake Preparedness and Prevention in Seismic Zones

Although it is impossible to predict exactly when an earthquake will occur, essential preventive measures must be known by the population, especially those living in high seismic activity areas like Alaska.

Recommended actions before an earthquake:

• Develop a clear and safe evacuation plan that all household members know
• Have a first aid kit equipped with disinfectants, pain relievers, bandages, gauze, hydrogen peroxide, blankets, and an emergency whistle
• Store essential family identification documents in a waterproof bag

Behavior during the earthquake:

When seismic alerts activate or the ground movement is felt, it is crucial to follow these recommendations:

• Follow safety brigade instructions and evacuate the building if possible
• If evacuation is not possible (living on floors above the third), go immediately to pre-identified safe zones within the building
• Stay away from windows, stairs, elevators, and objects that may fall
• Remain calm and keep a clear mind throughout the event

Actions after the earthquake:

Once the seismic movement has ceased, it is important to:

• Continue following instructions from authorities and security personnel
• Allow experts to assess structural damage before re-entering buildings
• Check the physical and emotional well-being of all family members
• Use alternative communication channels such as text messages instead of phone calls, to keep lines open for emergency reports

Constant monitoring by USGS and community preparedness are key elements to mitigate risks associated with seismic activity in Alaska and other earthquake-prone regions in the United States.