King Cove, like many communities across Alaska, is vulnerable to both natural and human-caused hazards. These include:
- Earthquakes
- Tsunamis
- Volcanoes
- Sea Storms
- Floods
- Avalanches
- Landslides
- Wildfires
This page provides important preparedness information tailored to our local community, and highlights how to stay informed and safe during emergencies.
General Preparedness Tips
Being prepared can make a critical difference during a disaster. Here are some universal steps you can take:
- Build an Emergency Supply Kit
Include food, water, medications, first-aid supplies, flashlights, and batteries. Aim for a 7-day supply for each person in your household. - Create a Family Communication Plan
Decide how you will contact each other during an emergency and where to meet if separated. - Stay Informed
Sign up for alerts and monitor local emergency channels, such as NIXLE and VHF radio.
Learn more about how to prepare for emergencies through the Alaska Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (AK DHS&EM) Learn, Prepare, Prevail.
Natural Hazard Spotlights
Earthquakes
Alaska is the most seismically active state in the U.S., and earthquakes can strike without warning. In King Cove, the potential for strong ground shaking is real.
What to Do During an Earthquake
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If indoors, get under sturdy furniture and protect your head. Stay away from windows.
- If Outside: Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
- After the Shaking Stops: Be prepared for aftershocks and check for injuries or hazards (gas leaks, broken glass).
Earthquake Preparedness
- Secure heavy furniture and appliances.
- Practice earthquake drills with your family.
- Know your evacuation routes in case a tsunami follows.
Learn more at the Alaska Earthquake Center.
Tsunamis
King Cove is located in a coastal area where tsunamis are a serious threat, especially following large offshore earthquakes.
Tsunami Sirens
- One tsunami evacuation siren is located in the community.
- Daily Test: Chimes play every day at 12:00 PM.
- Monthly Test: Full siren test occurs the first Monday of each month at 1:00 PM, including instructional messages.
When to Evacuate
- Immediately evacuate to high ground if you experience an earthquake that lasts more than 30 seconds or is strong enough to knock you off your feet — do not wait for sirens.
- A continuous siren tone means: Evacuate Now.
- An “All Clear” will be announced via NIXLE and VHF radio.
Tsunami Preparedness
- Identify evacuation routes to high ground in advance.
- In the event of a tsunami, the official evacuation site for the community is: King Cove School, located uptown, safely above tsunami risk zones.
- Participate in local tsunami evacuation drills.
- Keep an emergency go-bag ready.
Visit the U.S. Tsunami Warning System for alerts and education.
Local Emergency Communication Systems
NIXLE Alerts
The City of King Cove uses NIXLE to issue travel advisories, chain requirements, public safety notices, and disaster alerts.
You can receive alerts in three ways:
- View online: King Cove Nixle Wire
- Email alerts: Sign up here
- Text alerts: Text “99612” to 888777
VHF Radio
Emergency alerts and updates are also broadcast over local VHF radio frequencies. Keep a radio accessible and charged at all times.
Additional Resources
National Weather Service – Alaska Region