A major earthquake off Russia’s eastern coast has triggered tsunami warnings and advisories across the Pacific region. From Hawaii to the US West Coast, emergency authorities have begun urgent preparations amid fears of destructive waves reaching shorelines.
What Happened?
In the early hours, a powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck beneath the Pacific Ocean near Russia’s far eastern coast. The seismic activity sent shockwaves across neighbouring nations, prompting immediate tsunami alerts.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) and National Weather Service (NWS) have issued updates for coastal communities in the United States.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the earthquake’s strength and location, deep in the oceanic trench region near the Kuril Islands.
Areas Under Tsunami Alerts and Warnings
Here’s a breakdown of the current warnings and watch alerts:
Tsunami Warning Issued For:
Hawaii
Tsunami Watch Issued For:
Alaska
Pacific Coast of the Continental US (California, Oregon, Washington)
Other Regions at Risk:
Japan
Pacific Islands
Parts of Eastern Asia’s coastline
Estimated Tsunami Arrival Times (Local US Times)
While the full extent of the tsunami’s size remains unclear, US authorities have released estimated wave arrival times for various regions:
Hawaii
Sirens were triggered after waves measuring up to six feet were seen crashing onto shores.
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) stated:
“We expect significant damage along the coastlines. Emergency shelters are being opened. Please stay safe and listen to all official instructions.”
Alaska
Western Aleutian Islands, Kodiak, and Southeast Alaska have already experienced the first wave surges.
Residents have been urged to stay away from beaches and ports until further notice.
Washington and Oregon
Expected tsunami arrival: Between 2:35 am – 2:55 am ET (which is 12:05 pm – 12:25 pm IST).
Coastal towns have been placed on high alert, and local emergency systems are in motion.
California
Northern California (including Crescent City): ~2:50 am ET (12:20 pm IST)
San Francisco Bay Area: ~3:40 am ET (1:10 pm IST)
Southern California coastlines: ~4:00 am ET (1:30 pm IST)
Regional Advisories and Instructions
San Francisco Bay Area & Central Coast
A tsunami advisory has been declared for all coastal zones, including San Francisco and San Pablo Bays.
The National Weather Service Bay Area has warned:
“Strong and unusual currents are expected. Stay away from beaches, harbours, and marinas until the advisory is lifted.”
Los Angeles and Southern California
Rising water levels and rapid currents could impact:
Beaches
Harbours
Marinas
NWS Los Angeles issued a public safety reminder:
“Tsunamis may arrive as a series of waves, potentially lasting several hours. Please remain alert.”
Indian Embassy Issues Warning for Residents
The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has advised all Indian nationals living along the US West Coast to:
Avoid beaches and low-lying coastal areas.
Move to higher ground if an official tsunami warning is issued.
Stay tuned to local emergency broadcasts and alerts.
Keep an emergency kit ready and follow the guidance of local authorities.
Authorities Urge Public to Remain Calm and Prepared
Although precautionary measures are being taken across the Pacific region, officials continue to urge calm while emphasising preparedness.
Key Safety Reminders:
Do not visit the beach to watch the waves – tsunami waves can be deceptively powerful and may arrive in multiple surges.
Follow evacuation orders and instructions from local emergency agencies.
Check in on neighbours, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
Keep your phones charged and ensure you have access to reliable news sources.
Stay Informed – Live Updates
Keep an eye on the following for real-time alerts:
Local government websites and emergency text alert systems
Final Thoughts
The earthquake near Russia has shaken the Pacific region, both literally and emotionally. With tsunami waves already reaching parts of Alaska and Hawaii, and more expected along the US West Coast, this is a time to be vigilant, supportive of each other, and ready to act if necessary.
Let’s hope for minimal impact and safety for all affected communities.
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