This morning, a massive quake strikes off Aleutian Islands, South West of Alaska, threatening a devastating tsunami.

The quake, which struck at 6:55 a.m. EDT, was 22.1 miles deep and had 7.1 magnitude, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

This morning, a massive quake strikes off Aleutian Islands, South West of Alaska

People living in coastal areas have been told to leave their homes immediately and flee inland to higher ground after the 7.1 magnitude quake struck close to the Aleutian Islands, 1,031 miles away from Anchorage.

Widespread damage is feared across the West Coast – from British Columbia, Canada, to Washington – as towns brace themselves for the oncoming waves.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a warning stating that residents should flee their homes immediately.

“Those feeling the earth shake, seeing unusual wave action, or the water level rising or receding may have only a few minutes before the tsunami arrival and should move immediately.

“Homes and small buildings are not designed to withstand tsunami impacts. Do not stay in these structures.

“Earthquakes of this magnitude are known to generate tsunamis,” the warning said.

People in Pacific coastal regions outside California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and Alaska have also been told to check updates for fear of widespread damage.

It is predicted that the tsunami will hit mainland Alaska by about 9 a.m., local time, just after midday on the East Coast.

Last week, terrifying tremors were felt in New York, Washington D.C. and as far north as Toronto when America’s East Coast was struck by the biggest earthquake in over a century.

Major buildings, including the Pentagon and the White House had to be evacuated and several top tourist attractions in Washington have been closed for safety reasons after the city was shaken by a 5.8-magnitude quake, which originated in Virginia.