MANILA, Philippines - A strong 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Southeastern Alaska on Saturday, January 5, prompted US forecasters to issue a Tsunami bulletin for areas within and bordering the Pacific Ocean and adjacent seas.

The US Geological Survey said the earthquake hit at 8:58 am, Saturday, January 5. It said the bulletin that followed was issued only as advice to government agencies.

Currently, the USGS does not see any destructive widespread tsunami threat. The USGS said it will, nonetheless, continue monitoring the situation.

"This bulletin applies to areas within and bordering the Pacific Ocean and adjacent seas except Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California," the USGS said.

"The West coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center has issued a regional warning for coasts located near the earthquake. This center will continue to monitor the situation but does not expect a wider threat to occur," it added. - Rappler.com