Magnitude 8.7 Earthquake Near Russia Triggers Pacific Tsunami Warnings

A powerful magnitude 8.7 earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering tsunami warnings and watches across the Pacific region including Hawaii, Alaska, Japan, and parts of Micronesia. The quake, which was shallow at a depth of about 19 km, generated tsunami waves up to 4 meters in Kamchatka, causing damage and prompting evacuations, particularly in coastal towns like Severo-Kurilsk. Hawaii's emergency management issued a tsunami watch, anticipating possible hazardous waves within hours, while Japan’s meteorological agency forecasted one-meter waves along its Pacific coast. Officials urged residents in affected areas to avoid coastal waters and take necessary precautions as emergency teams closely monitor the evolving threat. This earthquake is among the strongest in the region in recent decades, with additional aftershocks recorded shortly after the main tremor. The widespread alerts reflect the significant tsunami risk posed by the quake, emphasizing the need for vigilance across multiple Pacific coastlines.