Source: U.S. Tsunami Warning System Note: Sensor data is available only for selected locations, mainly in North America. The New York Times
A tsunami warning was issued for parts of coastal Alaska after an earthquake in the Gulf of Alaska, according to the U.S. Tsunami Warning System.
The National Tsunami Warning Center said that a tsunami had been confirmed, and that “some impacts are expected.” The center also noted that there was no threat to other Canadian and U.S. coastlines.
The tsunami was triggered by a 7.3-magnitude quake on Wednesday afternoon, according to data from the system, which is part of the National Weather Service.
Tsunamis are a series of long waves caused by a large and sudden displacement of water in the ocean, usually from a large earthquake on or below the ocean floor. Tsunamis radiate in all directions from the epicenter and can cause dangerous coastal flooding and powerful currents that can last for hours or days.
Experts warn that just before a tsunami hits shore, seawater can first be drawn out to sea — exposing large swaths of beach and giving people along the water a false sense that a coast is safe.
As more information becomes available, officials may update, add or cancel tsunami alerts.
Camille Baker and Natasha Cornelissen contributed reporting.