An 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula triggered tsunami alerts. A tsunami warning was issued for Hawaii and parts of Alaska, with an estimated arrival time of 7:17 p.m. local time. Hawaii's governor reported potential wave sizes and warned of the dangers. A tsunami advisory was also issued for the West Coast.
The earthquake, initially measured at 8.0, was later adjusted to 8.8. A small tsunami wave reached Japan. The first wave hit Russia's Kuril Islands. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center predicted waves of up to 10 feet in some areas.
Tsunami sirens sounded in Honolulu. The National Weather Service urged action to protect lives. An emergency proclamation was signed. Subsequent waves were expected.
The earthquake was felt slightly in Japan. Reports from Russia described power outages and evacuations.
The event appeared to be the strongest globally since the 2011 Japan earthquake. New Zealand issued warnings of strong currents.
The National Weather Service has four levels of tsunami alerts, with a warning being the most severe.
5 Comments
Noir Black
Thank goodness for the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Their job is so important during situations like this.
KittyKat
This whole thing is designed to create fear. They need to calm down and start reporting facts, not drama.
Loubianka
The media loves to scare people. How many people actually died? They always avoid that detail at first.
Raphael
Wow, 8.8 magnitude! That's a significant event. Following the updates closely.
Leonardo
Hawaii? Alaska? Headline says near Russia, but seems like everyone else worries the most!