Alaska earthquake warning to the public

SALINAS, Calif, (KION)

Emergency officials are warning people in parts of Alaska to stay away from the coast following a 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Tuesday night.

It happened about 60 miles Southeast of Perryville, Alaska and was measured at about 8 miles deep according to the National Weather Service.

Some of the affected areas go from Kennedy Entrance to Samalga Pass.

The US Geological Survey says this is considered a shallow earthquake, which are known to cause more damage.

A public alert stated coastal floods and and powerful currents could continue for hours following an earthquake.

Emergency officials are recommending people seek higher ground, stay away from the coast and waters and not to reoccupy hazard zones until the affected areas are deemed safe.

For more information, visit tsunami.org