A 7.4 quake struck the Aleutian Islands of Alaska a few hours ago, boosting evidence that links intense solar weather with seismic activity. It was centered nearly 40 miles below Earth’s surface, and there are no early reports of significant damage or injury.
Having been quiet for weeks, Alaska has been due for a big quake. Solar wind from a large coronal hole on the Sun and an incoming particle stream from a big CME from the solstice flare on the 21st are both stirring up the magnetosphere, providing a trigger for the unleashing of tectonic stresses.
What other vulnerable spots may be in the line of fire this time – or next?
STACE TUSSEL-COLLIGAN