8.8 Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Alerts for U.S., Hawaii, and Pacific Nations

Massive 8.8 Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Alerts Across Pacific, Including U.S. West Coast and Hawaii

A powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula early Wednesday, setting off tsunami warnings and advisories across multiple countries — including parts of the United States.

Where and When the Earthquake Happened

The quake hit about 84 miles east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a coastal city in eastern Russia. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) initially measured it at magnitude 8.0, but later revised it up to 8.8. Several strong aftershocks, including one of magnitude 6.9, followed.

Tsunami Warnings Issued

Tsunami alerts have been issued for:

• U.S. West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington)

• Alaska and the Aleutian Islands

• Hawaii

• Russia, Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, China

• Guam, Tonga, Mexico, Peru, Ecuador

The National Weather Service issued a tsunami advisory for the U.S. Pacific Coast, warning residents to stay away from the shore. The U.S. Coast Guard also ordered commercial vessels to evacuate harbors in Hawaii.

Japan and Taiwan Report Rising Waves

Japan has issued tsunami warnings for its eastern coastline, with waves reported as high as 1.9 feet in some areas and possibly reaching up to 9.8 feet. Taiwan’s weather agency also warned of waves between 1 and 3 feet along its southern coast.

Russia Declares Emergency

In Russia’s Kuril Islands, waves caused flooding, damaged buildings, and even dragged ships out to sea. Officials declared a state of emergency in the area, and the town of Severo-Kurilsk evacuated its 2,000 residents to higher ground.

Volcano Erupting Nearby

At the same time, the Klyuchevskoy volcano on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula spewed ash up to 3 miles into the air. Authorities warn that lava flows and more ash clouds could continue, potentially affecting air travel.

Expert Warnings

Geologists say the quake happened in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone known for intense earthquake and volcanic activity. Experts compared this quake to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and Japan’s 2011 disaster, both caused by similar subduction zone activity.

U.S. Residents Advised to Stay Safe

In places like San Francisco, the National Weather Service is urging residents not to go near the ocean or take photos, warning that tsunami waves often come in multiple surges and can be unpredictable.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation across the Pacific Rim. Stay tuned to official alerts and local emergency services for the latest updates.