Powerful Earthquake Strikes Outside Anchorage, Alaska, on Thanksgiving Day

Strong Earthquake Shakes Anchorage Area on Thanksgiving

Residents of southcentral Alaska were jolted early Thursday morning when a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Anchorage. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the quake occurred just after 11 p.m. local time Wednesday, with an epicenter about 60 miles southwest of Anchorage and a depth of roughly 30 miles.

Local Reactions and Effects

Many residents said they were awakened by the violent shaking, which lasted several seconds.

"The whole house started moving, and the dishes rattled off the shelves," said Anchorage resident Karen Mitchell.

Power outages were reported across parts of the Kenai Peninsula and Anchorage, but no major damage or injuries were immediately confirmed by local authorities. Alaska State Troopers and emergency services conducted safety checks in affected areas.

Geological Context

Alaska is the most seismically active region in the United States, sitting atop the Pacific “Ring of Fire” where tectonic plates frequently shift. Thursday’s earthquake was one of the strongest to strike the Anchorage area since the devastating 7.1 quake in 2018.

Expert Assessment

According to the Alaska Earthquake Center, aftershocks are possible in the coming days. Seismologists remind residents that large tremors in the region are common and emphasize the importance of earthquake readiness.

Official Response

Officials urged residents to inspect their homes for hazards and stay tuned for updates from the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
Governor Mike Dunleavy posted on social media that state agencies were “monitoring the situation closely” and encouraged Alaskans to remain calm while assessments continued.


Author’s summary: A magnitude 6.0 quake struck near Anchorage on Thanksgiving, shaking homes but causing limited damage and no confirmed injuries, according to initial reports.

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