A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday. It hit 126 kilometres from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky at an 18-kilometre depth. The tremor triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific region.

Japan quickly ordered people along the Pacific coast to evacuate. Officials said: “Tsunami waves will likely cause damage. Evacuate immediately from coastal regions and riverside areas to a safer place such as high ground or an evacuation building.”

They also warned: “Tsunami waves will hit repeatedly. Do not leave safe ground until the warning is lifted.” Shortly after, 30 cm waves hit Hokkaido’s coast by 10:40 a.m. Tokachi saw slightly higher waves at 40 cm.

Japan evacuated over 900,000 people in 133 locations along the Pacific coast. Authorities evacuated Fukushima plant workers to safety, although they reported no damage. Moreover, trains, ferries, and flights stopped running in some areas, including Sendai.

Meanwhile, the United States issued a tsunami warning for Hawaii and a watch for Alaska. The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said Guam could face 1 to 3 metre high waves. They also warned Hawaii about “destructive” waves.

Hawaiian officials ordered evacuations across parts of Oahu, including Honolulu. Alerts stated: “Take Action! Destructive tsunami waves are expected.” Residents rushed to higher ground after sirens began to sound.

Additionally, California, Oregon, and Washington received tsunami advisories. Authorities sent alerts asking people to avoid beaches and coastal areas. They confirmed that no evacuations were necessary but urged caution.

In Russia, waves between 3 and 4 meters hit Kamchatka’s coast. Emergency Minister Sergei Lebedev said the waves damaged a kindergarten but hurt no one. He added that the quake caused power and mobile signal loss.

Kamchatka Governor Vladimir Solodov stated, “Today’s earthquake was serious and the strongest in decades of tremors.” The USGS confirmed that it tied with quakes in Chile (2010) and Ecuador (1906). All three reached magnitude 8.8.

Helen Janiszewski from the University of Hawaii said it ranked among the ten strongest quakes ever. She spoke with the BBC about its historic strength. Officials warned the tsunami threat could last 10 to 36 hours.

So far, no serious injuries or deaths have been confirmed. Governments urged people to remain alert and follow official instructions. They stressed their focus remains on saving lives and ensuring public safety.

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