Quake Hits Off Russian Coast, Waves Reach Hawaii

A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s eastern coast overnight, triggering tsunami threats across the Pacific. According to BBC News, the first waves reached Hawaii, where a 4-foot (1.2m) surge was recorded off Oahu.

Authorities had already urged Hawaiian residents to evacuate coastal areas as the threat quickly escalated.

One of the Strongest Quakes Ever Recorded

This earthquake ranks as the sixth-strongest in recorded history. In Petropavlovsk, Russia, a kindergarten collapsed during the tremor, injuring several people. Meanwhile, tsunami waves crashed into the coastal town of Severo-Kurilsk.

Oleg Melnikov, regional health minister, confirmed to state agency TASS that injuries occurred both indoors and while residents attempted to flee. One person even jumped out of a window. Thankfully, all victims are in stable condition, and no critical injuries have been reported.

Mass Evacuations in Hawaii

Hawaiian residents are fleeing en masse. Roads are packed as thousands head inland, away from the coast. Emergency sirens have been activated across tsunami hazard zones.

Tsunami Warning for U.S. West Coast

The U.S. National Weather Service issued a tsunami warning for the California-Oregon border, urging immediate action. Advisories remain active along the broader U.S. West Coast, as officials monitor the ongoing threat.

Trump Issues Emergency Alert

Former President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to warn millions:

“Due to a massive earthquake in the Pacific Ocean, a Tsunami Warning is in effect for those in Hawaii. A Tsunami Watch is in place for Alaska and the Pacific Coast. Japan is also in the path. Please visit tsunami.gov for updates. STAY STRONG AND STAY SAFE!”

Countries and Islands at Risk

The tsunami impact extends far beyond the U.S. In Japan, over 1.9 million people have been ordered to evacuate after a 4.3-foot wave reached Iwate Prefecture.

Tsunami alerts are also active in parts of China, the Philippines, Indonesia, Guam, Peru, and the Galapagos Islands.

Full list of affected islands:

Guam

Palau

Solomon Islands

Marshall Islands

Midway Atoll

Wake Island

Johnston Atoll

Northern Mariana Islands

Yap

Pohnpei

Korsae

Chuuk

Aleutian Islands

Staying Safe During a Tsunami
The National Weather Service advises everyone in hazard zones to:

Avoid the coast until the all-clear is given.

Evacuate immediately if instructed. Move inland or to higher ground.

Set up multiple alert systems, such as text notifications from local authorities.

Preparation and awareness can save lives. If you’re in an affected area, act quickly and stay informed.