Strong M6.5 earthquake strikes near Nikolski, Alaska on September 17, 2026

An earthquake with a magnitude of M6.5 was recorded at 14:19 UTC on September 17, 2026, approximately 165 km (103 miles) west of Nikolski, Alaska. The event occurred at a depth of 111.7 km (69.4 miles), according to data provided by USGS.

The epicenter, located at approximately 52.8°N, 171.3°W, was situated in the Bering Sea region, offshore western Alaska and west of the Aleutian Islands. This area is sparsely populated, with Nikolski being one of the nearest settlements.

Given the remote offshore location near the Aleutian island arc, critical infrastructure such as ports, fisheries, and regional airstrips could be found on nearby islands, but large population centers and major infrastructure are distant from the epicenter.

There is a tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.

USGS issued a green alert for this event, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or damage. The maximum estimated intensity reached close to V on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. Five felt reports were submitted. The significance index is 652 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

The Aleutian region is the product of active tectonic interaction between the Pacific and North American plates, marked by subduction and frequent seismic events, which makes it one of the most seismically active regions in North America.

This information was last updated at 15:02 UTC on September 17, 2026.