Massive 8.8 Magnitude Quake Triggers Tsunami in Russia, Alerts for Japan, Hawaii, California

Powerful Earthquake Strikes Off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula

A strong 8.8-magnitude earthquake hit off Russia's far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula, causing tsunami warnings for multiple countries. Waves up to 4m (13ft) were observed in the Kamchatka Peninsula, leading to building damage and injuries.

Tsunami alerts were issued for Japan, parts of the US (Hawaii, California, and Alaska), and the Philippines. The Honolulu Department of Emergency Management urged coastal area evacuations in Hawaii due to expected "destructive tsunami waves."

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center warned of possible 1-3m (3-10ft) waves in Hawaii, Chile, Japan, and the Solomon Islands. Alaska reported waves under 30cm above tide levels in Amchitka and Adak.

Japan issued tsunami warnings for coastal areas, anticipating waves up to 3m high. Evacuation advisories were issued for nearly two million people in over 220 municipalities along Japan's Pacific coast.

The earthquake, centered about 125km (80 miles) east-southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, was shallow at 19.3km (12 miles) depth. The US Geological Survey revised the magnitude from 8.0 to 8.8.

Damage and Injuries in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula

Kamchatka governor Vladimir Solodov described the earthquake as the strongest in decades. Following the quake, several people sought medical help, with injuries reported from running outside, jumping out of windows, and incidents inside buildings.

In Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, people ran into the streets, homes experienced damage, and power outages occurred. The region is expected to experience aftershocks with magnitudes up to 7.5 for at least a month.

New Zealand's Civil Defence agency warned of strong currents and surges in coastal areas. While no immediate evacuations were needed, citizens were advised to stay away from beaches and shore areas.