Governor Walker issues disaster declaration

Governor Walker issued a verbal disaster declaration in response to yesterday’s 7.0 earthquake that shook southcentral Alaska at 8:29am. At Governor Walker’s request, President Trump issued a Federal Emergency Declaration to assist local, state, and non-government response and recovery efforts.
Extensive road damage is reported in both Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley. All hospitals are open and accepting patients. A tsunami warning was issued for coastal areas of Cook Inlet and the Southern Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, but was cancelled at 10:05 am. Interruption of power and water utilities were reported across southcentral Alaska. Utility providers are steadily restoring normal utility service.
“While damage to infrastructure has caused significant problems, we are thankful there has been no fatalities or major injuries.” said Mike Sutton, Director of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. “The many organizations that were involved in this response effort should be proud. However, as the response effort begins to subside we will need to prepare for the long-term recovery effort.”
The Municipality of Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and Kenai Peninsula Borough activated their emergency operations centers (EOC). From these EOCs response activities were coordinated. The State of Alaska activated the State Emergency Operations Center to support local government response.
At this time the state has not received any requests for assistance from local jurisdictions.
Alaskans with damages to homes, vehicles, or personal possessions should document your damages. Take photos or video of losses, contact your insurance company, and begin cleaning up and making repairs. Be ready to report your damages if asked.