Interior Alaska experiences 5.3 magnitude earthquake

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - Interior Alaska felt a strong shaking from a 5.3 magnitude earthquake that occurred on Friday, Jan. 19 at 12:34 p.m.

The epicenter of the quake was 2.5 mile southwest of Salcha at a depth of 4 miles, according to the Alaska Earthquake Center.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reports approximately 30 small aftershocks have occurred since 2 p.m. and estimates there is a 66% chance of at least one 3 magnitude or greater within the next week.

The strongest reported shaking was in the Salcha, Big Delta areas and near Eielson Air Force Base with moderate shaking in the Fairbanks, North Pole, Two Rivers and Fox areas. Nenana also reported strong shaking.

Reports from Facebook indicate the earthquake was felt as far away as Talkeetna and the Mat Su Valley.

There are no reports of damage at this time.