Earthquakes

This picture shows 4th Avenue in Anchorage, AK, post 1964 Earthquake. The right side of the street is a good twelve feet lower than the left half. Construction vehicles line the leveled area, trying to fix the damage. Several marquis lined the ruined shops.

USGS

Damage done by the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake on 4th Avenue in Anchorage, AK.

An earthquake is a result of a rapid release of energy in the Earth's crust. This energy creates waves or jolts that are called seismic waves. The size of an earthquake is measured on the Richter scale; the bigger the quake, the higher the number. The epicenter (point on Earth's surface directly on top of the underground release of energy) occurs where two plates meet. If this occurs on the ocean floor it can form a tsunami wave.

Listen to our podcast for more information on earthquakes

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A iTunes compatible ACC version of Earthquake podcast

Alaska averages 100 earthquakes a day. Most people don't feel any of these earthquakes, not only because of the sheer size of the state, but also because most of the earthquakes are so small that they barely register on the Richter scale. People who live in Alaska are extremely used to earthquakes, and many take extra safety precautions.

A earthquake destroys a house at the corner of 8th Avenue and N Street.

USGS

A house damaged by the 1964 Good Friday earthquake in Anchorage, AK.

If you're heading to Alaska, it's important to brush up on your earthquake safety. If you are inside during an earthquake hide under the nearest table. Duck your head and hold onto the leg of the table. Stay away from windows. Do not stand in any doorways. If you are outside, try to move into an open field, away from buildings and power lines. Most deaths and injuries that happen during an earthquake are caused by people being hit by falling projectiles or moving from one location to another.