Massive Earthquake Hits Russia’s Far East, Tsunami Alerts Issued Across Pacific Region

International News: An intense 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday, triggering widespread alerts across the Pacific region. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), this is the strongest earthquake in the area since 1952.

Tsunami Warnings in Multiple Countries

The strength of the quake triggered tsunami warnings in several countries, including the United States, Japan, New Zealand, the Philippines, Ecuador, and Hawaii. Coastal regions in these areas were placed on alert due to the risk of high waves.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said waves as high as 3 meters (around 10 feet) could hit parts of Russia and Ecuador.

Series of Quakes in Kamchatka

Throughout the day, at least six smaller quakes were recorded near Kamchatka, ranging from 5.4 to 6.9 in magnitude. Though not as strong as the initial 8.8 quake, they added to public fear and safety concerns.

Countries Take Precautionary Measures

In Hawaii, sirens were sounded in Honolulu, and people were advised to move to higher ground. Tsunami waves between 1 and 3 meters could hit Hawaii, Chile, Japan, and the Solomon Islands, according to experts. Japan issued a tsunami warning for areas including Tokyo Bay, while New Zealand’s disaster management agency warned of "strong and unusual currents" along the coast, advising caution.

In the Philippines, coastal communities near the Pacific Ocean were told to stay away from beaches due to the risk of small tsunami waves. Tsunami alerts have also been issued for Guam and certain areas of Alaska.

Tsunami Watch Across U.S. West Coast

In the U.S., the National Weather Service issued tsunami advisories from California’s southern border with Mexico all the way up to Chignik Bay in Alaska. These regions might experience powerful waves and strong, hazardous sea currents.

Ecuador is also among the countries likely to be affected, where waves up to 3 meters high may hit coastal zones.

Government Urges Public to Stay Safe

Authorities in affected countries are urging people to stay away from beaches and remain alert. In Hawaii, people are already heading to higher ground. Japan and New Zealand have urged people living near the coast to remain alert and take necessary precautions.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center continues to monitor the situation and has requested everyone in affected zones to follow safety instructions calmly and seriously.