Tsunami Warnings Issued After Massive 8.8-Magnitude Earthquake Off Russia

By Doubra Diafa

A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula early Wednesday, triggering widespread tsunami warnings across the Pacific region.

The tremor, which occurred deep beneath the Pacific Ocean, prompted immediate alerts in Hawaii, Alaska, and parts of the U.S. West Coast, including California, Oregon, and Washington. Officials warned coastal residents to move to higher ground as a precaution.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC)** confirmed that the first tsunami waves had already reached Hilo, Hawaii, measuring under one meter but with the potential to intensify. Meanwhile, emergency sirens were activated in several coastal towns in Northern California, where waves as high as 1.5 meters (4.8 feet) were forecast.

So far, no casualties or major damages have been reported, but emergency agencies remain on high alert.

Seismologists are monitoring aftershocks, while officials urge residents in low-lying coastal zones to stay vigilant and follow evacuation instructions.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said the quake was one of the strongest recorded in recent years, and warned of possible aftershocks in the coming hours.