The Hidden Threat – Alaska’s Tsunami Risk

When people think of tsunamis, they often picture far-off places in the Pacific or Indian Oceans. But did you know Alaska is one of the most tsunami-prone regions in the world? The state’s rugged coastlines and seismic activity make it a prime zone for tsunami generation, particularly due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire.”

Alaska has experienced some of the most powerful earthquakes in U.S. history, including the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake (magnitude 9.2), which triggered a devastating tsunami. That event claimed over 130 lives and caused destruction from Alaska all the way to California and Hawaii.

With its combination of tectonic activity, steep underwater slopes, and vulnerable coastal communities, Alaska remains at high risk. While remote, its tsunamis can reach far and fast—making awareness and preparedness essential