Explore Instantly

Magnitude 8.8 Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Waves Near Russia-Controlled Kuril Islands

Tsunami waves have reached Hawaii's coast following an 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia's far east on Wednesday. The earthquake caused devastation and led to mass evacuations.

Evacuation orders have been issued for parts of the US West Coast, urging people to move away from the sea.

Tsunamis are generated by underwater earthquakes, which displace water and create waves. Contrary to popular belief, tsunamis consist of multiple waves rather than a single large wave.

Coastal areas of the Kuril Islands experienced tsunami waves up to 5 meters high, while Japan recorded waves of around 40cm in 16 locations off Hokkaido's coast. Over 900,000 people along Japan's eastern seaboard were asked to evacuate.

Tsunami warnings are also in effect for parts of China, Canada, and areas south toward New Zealand.

On the US West Coast, the National Weather Service advises people to stay away from beaches, harbors, and marinas.

Tsunami waves have been recorded in Hawaii, with waves reaching heights of 5.7ft in Kahului, Maui, and 4.9ft in Hilo. Crescent City, California, activated its tsunami sirens, warning residents about potential waves.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green reported no major tsunami waves past Big Island and announced the closure of commercial harbors and cancellation of flights at Maui airport. The governor stated that airports have not been affected by the waves.

The height of tsunami waves in Severo-Kurilsk, Russia, exceeded three meters, with the most powerful wave reaching five meters, as reported by Russia's RIA Novosti news agency.

A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, making it the sixth strongest on record and the largest since the 2011 Japan quake. The earthquake was shallow, with its epicenter 119 km east-southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.

A tsunami advisory has been issued for most of the British Columbia coast following the earthquake, with Canadian authorities warning of strong waves and currents.