8.8 quake in Russia triggers Pacific-wide tsunami; Evacuations ordered, flights cancelled across regions

A powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck Russia’s Far East on Wednesday morning, triggering tsunami waves across the Pacific region. According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake occurred at 8:25 am Japan time, approximately 119 kilometres southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, at a depth of 20.7 kilometres. It was followed by strong aftershocks, including one measuring 6.9 magnitude. Tsunami waves were later recorded in Russia, Japan, Alaska, Hawaii, and parts of the US West Coast.

In Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, tsunami waves between 3 to 4 metres were recorded. Ports were flooded, and residents were evacuated to inland areas. In Severokurilsk, boats were swept away in the fishing port, and power was cut in several areas to allow for structural inspections. The town's mayor, Alexander Ovsyannikov, stated that although there were injuries, there was no serious damage reported.

In Japan, tsunami waves reached northern coastal areas, prompting evacuations. White, frothy waves were seen hitting the shoreline. Authorities confirmed one injury and stated that no irregularities were detected at nearby nuclear facilities. Evacuation orders were issued in multiple districts as a precaution.

In Hawaii, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed waves of up to 1.7 metres hitting the islands by 0730 GMT. Governor Josh Green said 6-foot waves were recorded at Midway Atoll. Traffic congestion was reported inland as residents evacuated coastal areas. At Kahului Airport in Maui, all flights were cancelled and passengers sheltered inside the terminal. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport temporarily halted baggage screening during the initial wave but resumed operations shortly after. Hilo Airport began preparations to reopen its runway for Wednesday flights.

Tsunami advisories were issued along the US West Coast, including California, Oregon, and Washington, as well as parts of British Columbia in Canada. The National Tsunami Warning Center reported wave activity in Alaska's Aleutian Islands reaching up to 1.4 feet. In California, tsunami waves were detected on tide gauges at Arena Cove. Emergency departments in coastal states warned of strong currents and multiple wave surges, urging the public to stay away from beaches and harbours until further notice.