Earthquake, 4.4, shakes Talkeetna, Mat-Su

As the work day was winding down Wednesday a shallow earthquake with a magnitude of 4.4 shook Valley residents -- especially those in Talkeetna. The quake's epicenter was only 10 miles east of Talkeetna and four miles deep, according to the West Coast and Alaska Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer. Most earthquakes in this area have epicenters significantly deeper than that, according to tsunami center workers. No tsunami warning was issued as a result of the quake.

The quake occurred at 5:06 p.m. The Talkeetna fire station reported that there were no emergency calls as a result of the quake. The quake lasted long enough to put people on guard.

"It shook for about 30 seconds," said Candy Thompson, who lives near Montana Creek. "I was about to run out of my house."

An early-morning 5.2 quake on Feb. 6 also took many people by surprise as they were starting their day. That quake was centered 22 miles deep and prompted a warning about earthquake preparedness.

After that quake, Scott Simmons, state hazard mitigation officer with the Alaska Division of Emergency Services, said the quake should serve as a reminder to Alaskans that earthquakes can happen any time. It is important that everyone has a plan in case of an earthquake or other event and that they practice that plan periodically, he said.

"Earthquakes don't just happen when we are sitting at home. We experienced this yesterday morning. We need to remind our family, friends and coworkers of the proper procedures to follow when an earthquake strikes, no matter where we are or what we are doing," Simmons said.

Following are some steps to take during an earthquake:

Drop, cover and hold. Take cover under a sturdy table or desk. Sit on the floor next to a wall. If you are outside, find a clear spot and drop to the ground. It is important not to run outside if you are inside -- many injuries occur while people are running through buildings during a quake.

Move away from windows. Stay clear of windows, bookcases and other unsecured objects to avoid being hit by airborne items or broken glass.

Remain under shelter until shaking stops. Be careful to stay under cover for several minutes, since aftershocks are common after an earthquake. If you are in a coastal community, move inland or uphill once the shaking stops in case of tsunami generated by the earthquake.

Think before you move. Some exits may be blocked by fallen debris. Walls or furniture may have become unstable.

Do not panic. Listen to the radio for emergency instructions, and only use the telephone to report life-threatening emergencies.

"You can also help to eliminate hazards in your home or workplace by securing bookcases, water heaters and other tall furniture items and appliances. Most importantly, make sure you and your family have a disaster response plan and practice it," Simmons said.

For more information on earthquake preparedness, contact your local Red Cross emergency management office or the Alaska Division of Emergency Services.