No Tsunami Threat for Washington Coast After 5.4-Magnitude Alaska Quake: What Happened?

Early on [insert date], a 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Alaska, sending brief ripples of concern across the Pacific Northwest. Within minutes, officials confirmed: no tsunami danger for Washington coast. But how do authorities assess these risks so quickly? And why do some quakes trigger tsunamis while others—like this one—don’t?

In this breakdown, we’ll explore the science behind earthquake-tsunami dynamics, how real-time monitoring systems like the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) work, and why Washington’s coastline remained safe this time. We’ll also share key takeaways for coastal residents and how to stay prepared—because while this quake posed no threat, the Pacific Northwest’s seismic history demands vigilance.