A powerful earthquake has hit beneath the Gulf of Alaska today – and now a tsunami warning has been issue for coastal areas from British Columbia to the Aleutians.
According to the National Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer, the quake was centred 175 miles southeast of Kodiak.
Officials have warned of “widespread hazardous waves”, and has been put in place for the entire west coast of the US, Alaska and British Colombia.
Only four earthquakes of higher magnitude have been recorded in the US – all of which were followed by tsunamis.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said: “Based on all available data a tsunami may have been generated by this earthquake that could be destructive on coastal areas even far from the epicentre.”
This means a tsunami is likely.
The Foreign Office urge travellers to follow advice issued by local authorise, and to closely monitor local reports.
The US travel advice and advisories has reiterated this message: “If you are in or around the affected areas, monitor local media for the latest developments and follow the instructions of local authorities.”
However, they have not currently discouraged travellers from going to the US state.
So far no cancellations or warnings have been made about entering the US.
Alaska is at all times of the year at high risk of natural disasters, especially earthquakes.
There are no direct flights from the UK to Alaska, but many Brits can take advantage of flights to Anchorage via Iceland.
Icelandair currently still have flights that can take you from London to Anchorage with no travel disruptions reported.
If you already are in Alaska or the west coast of the US, you should follow local advice.
Police in Kodiak have said: "Citizens should remain in place and wait for further updates.”
The earthquake struck around 175 miles southeast of Kodiak today.
Currently tourists have been urged to stay away from beaches and not to be tempted to go near the tsunami to experience it.
It is important to know what to do in the event of a tsunami.
The most important advice given to travellers is to stay high and evacuate low-lying areas.
You should find a safe place and stay there until you hear from emergency officials that it is safe to return.
If you find yourself on a boat you should move out to sea to a depth of at least 180 feet.
If you are situated in Alaska and have any concerns you can contact the British consulate in Anchorage at (+1) (907) 786 4848.
