Tsunami waves have reached the U.S. West Coast following a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck off Russia’s eastern Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday, triggering widespread tsunami warnings across the Pacific region.
The powerful undersea quake occurred at around 11:25 a.m. local time (00:25 BST) and is among the strongest ever recorded in the area. It caused panic and emergency evacuations in several countries, including Russia, Japan, and the United States.
Tsunami alerts were issued shortly after the quake, affecting areas from Russia’s Far East to Hawaii and the U.S. Pacific coastline. Although authorities have since downgraded the warnings in Japan, Hawaii, and parts of Russia, the initial alarm prompted mass evacuations — with nearly two million residents fleeing coastal regions in Japan.
In Russia, waves up to four meters (13 feet) high flooded the port of Severo-Kurilsk in the Kuril Islands, prompting the evacuation of the town. Emergency crews are currently assessing the damage in the region.
Eyewitnesses described intense scenes of panic during the quake. “Chaos broke out, furniture started falling before our eyes,” one resident told the BBC.
On the U.S. West Coast, emergency agencies have been closely monitoring ocean activity. While no immediate casualties or damages have been reported, officials have urged coastal residents to stay alert as the situation continues to evolve.
Seismologists are tracking aftershocks and monitoring sea level changes, while regional authorities remain on high alert for potential further seismic activity.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
