Alaska Earthquake Center Released Tsunami Map

The state has launched an interactive tool to help 66 coastal communities plan for tsunami hazards.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Safety

Isometric editorial illustration showing stacked geometric blocks of mountainous Alaskan coastline and sea levels, representing coastal flood risk zones. — The Alaska Earthquake Center has released an interactive tsunami hazard map to support emergency planning for 66 coastal communities across the state. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you feel your community is adequately prepared for a potential natural disaster?

The Alaska Earthquake Center has unveiled an interactive tsunami map to aid coastal emergency planning. The resource provides elevation and flooding data for 66 communities across the state.

Why it matters

Alaska's extreme coastal geography and history of seismic activity require precise emergency preparedness. This map helps local authorities designate effective evacuation zones to protect residents from future threats.

The new interactive map covers 66 Alaskan communities using elevation and flooding data. While Valdez features detailed evacuation routes, other areas like Saint Paul and Port Alexander currently rely on basic mapping.

The players

Alaska Earthquake Center

This organization monitors seismic activity across the state and produces resources to enhance public safety during geological events.

The details

The tool uses specific flooding and elevation boundary lines to help local authorities establish clear evacuation zones. Pilot projects in places like Valdez currently provide detailed assembly points, with plans to expand high-resolution data to smaller, remote regions.

The 1964 Good Friday earthquake was responsible for the majority of historical tsunami deaths.
The interactive tsunami mapping project was officially launched on October 7, 2026.

Seasonal Patterns

This initiative updates long-standing safety protocols developed in the aftermath of the 1964 Good Friday earthquake. By providing granular data for 66 communities, the project shifts from generalized historical warnings to precise, community-specific evacuation planning.

Coastal residents should check the map to identify their community's designated evacuation zones and assembly points. Reviewing these routes now ensures you are prepared to move to higher ground immediately if a tsunami warning is issued.

The takeaway

Understanding your local evacuation boundary is the most critical step for coastal safety in Alaska. Residents should memorize their closest assembly points to reduce confusion during an emergency.