Magnitude 7.4 earthquake in Alaska sparks tsunami warning

(AccuWeather)

A powerful earthquake occurred just south of the Alaska Peninsula early Monday afternoon, local time, prompting tsunami warning for part of the coast.

The earthquake was initially rated a magnitude 7.4, but was upgraded to a magnitude 7.5 with a depth of 40.1 km (25 miles), according to the USGS. The epicenter was approximately 575 miles southwest of Anchorage, Alaska.

"Based on the preliminary earthquake parameters, hazardous tsunami waves are possible for coasts located within 300 km (186 miles) of the earthquake epicenter," the National Tsunami Warning Center said in a bulletin.

Tsunami warnings were issued for part of the Alaska coast but did not include Anchorage.

(AccuWeather)

People near the coast should seek higher ground immediately.

This is a developing story. Continue to check back with AccuWeather as more information becomes available.

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