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8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Russia’s Coast, Triggering Widespread Tsunami Alerts
A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Tuesday, prompting tsunami warnings and advisories for multiple regions across the Pacific, including Alaska, Hawaii, California, Oregon, and Washington.
The quake occurred approximately 85 miles from the Russian coast at a depth of nearly 12 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Initial magnitude reports of 8.0 and 8.7 were later upgraded to 8.8. Significant aftershocks of magnitude 6.3 and 6.9 were also recorded in the area.
Tsunami Warnings and Watches Activated Across the Pacific
The powerful undersea quake has triggered:
- Tsunami Warnings for Alaska’s Aleutian Islands and all of Hawaii
- Tsunami Advisories for California, Oregon, Washington, Guam, and American Samoa
- Tsunami Alerts for Japan’s Pacific Coast, from Hokkaido to Kyushu
Officials are closely monitoring the evolving threat and urging residents in affected areas to take precautions.
Hawaii Emergency Systems Activated Amid Expected Tsunami Impact
Emergency sirens have been activated across all Hawaiian Islands as the first waves are forecast to reach the state around 7:15 p.m. local time. Authorities expect destructive tsunami waves and have activated Hawaii’s Emergency Operations Center as well as the Joint Information Center.
Residents in coastal zones have been instructed to evacuate or seek higher ground, with a specific advisory to reach at least the fourth floor of nearby buildings.
California and West Coast Brace for Potential Impact
California’s advisory was elevated from a Tsunami Watch to a Tsunami Advisory, with waves projected to arrive on the California coast around 11:50 p.m., and in the Los Angeles area by 1 a.m. Huntington Beach has already announced pier and beach closures as a safety measure.
Oregon and Washington are under similar advisories, with coastal areas warned to stay alert as tsunami waves could reach shorelines and wrap around landmasses, increasing risk even in unexpected zones.
Japan’s Pacific Coast Under Watch
Japan’s Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory for several prefectures. Waves approximately 1 meter (3 feet) high are expected to reach northern Hokkaido around 10:00 a.m. local time, with additional waves impacting eastern Honshu and parts of southern Kyushu later in the day.
Authorities are advising the public to avoid coasts and river mouths, warning that curiosity could place people in significant danger.
Officials Warn: Tsunami Threat May Last for Hours
The National Weather Service emphasized that tsunami danger can persist for several hours. Importantly, the first wave is not always the largest, and subsequent waves may be more powerful.
Residents in all affected areas are strongly urged to stay informed, heed evacuation orders, and avoid any attempt to approach shorelines until officials declare it safe.
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