On October 4, 2024, a magnitude 1.6 earthquake occurred 37 miles east of Chenega Bay, Alaska, at a depth of 12.1 miles. This event has not been reviewed by a seismologist and is part of the complex tectonic activity in Southcentral Alaska, influenced by several notable faults and historical seismic events.
On October 4, 2024, at 05:14:30 AKDT, a magnitude 1.6 earthquake was recorded approximately 37 miles east of Chenega Bay, Alaska, at a depth of 12.1 miles (19 km). This seismic event has not undergone expert review. The locality of this event places it within proximity to several notable geographic landmarks, including being situated 46 miles south of Tatitlek, 47 miles southwest of Cordova, and further distances from other Alaskan locations, such as 121 miles southeast of Anchorage. Alaska is characterized by a complex tectonic environment, particularly in Southcentral Alaska, where various seismic activities are influenced by multiple tectonic structures. The most significant earthquakes arise from the megathrust fault along the interface of the subducting Pacific Plate and the overlying North American Plate. Historical precedents, such as the 1964 M9.2 Great Alaska Earthquake under Prince William Sound, underline the seismic potency of this region. Intermediate-depth seismicity occurs within the Wadati-Benioff Zone and demonstrates the Pacific Plate’s descent under the North American Plate. Major earthquakes in this zone include the 2016 M7.1 Iniskin and the 2018 M7.1 Anchorage earthquakes, both of which caused considerable shaking and structural consequences. Additionally, crustal seismicity is a significant factor in Southcentral Alaska, influenced by three primary sources. The faults and folds of the Cook Inlet basin, the Castle Mountain Fault, and a diffuse band of seismicity extending towards the Denali Fault contribute to this phenomenon. The 1933 M6.9 earthquake in Anchorage and the 1984 M5.6 Sutton Earthquake highlight the seismic risks associated with mapped geological structures within the region. Understanding the local tectonics provides essential insight into the likelihood of future seismic events.
The background of this article encompasses the tectonic complexities influencing seismic activity in Southcentral Alaska. The region is marked by interactions between the subducting Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, which create fault lines and zones of seismicity. This geological framework not only contributes to the frequency of earthquakes but also depicts the historical context of notable seismic events that have significantly impacted the area.
In conclusion, the magnitude 1.6 earthquake near Chenega Bay on October 4, 2024, exemplifies the ongoing seismic activity prevalent in Southcentral Alaska. The tectonic setting of this region, influenced by the interaction of major geological plates and various fault systems, underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and understanding of local seismic risks. Historical earthquakes serve as a reminder of the geological forces at work and their potential implications for communities in Alaska.
Original Source: earthquake.alaska.edu
