Tsunami Alerts Issued Following Major Earthquake
On Tuesday, tsunami alerts were issued for Alaska, Hawaii, and the entire US West Coast after a significant earthquake, measured at 8.8 magnitude, struck near the Russian coast.
The earthquake, which occurred approximately 85 miles off the east coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, was detected at a depth of nearly 12 miles, according to reports. In response, the National Weather Service issued alerts for various locations, including the Aleutian Islands in Alaska, Guam, Hawaii, and several other areas globally.
Initially, the US Geological Survey registered the earthquake at a magnitude of 8.0, later revising it to 8.7 and finally, 8.8 by Tuesday evening.
For Hawaii, it’s anticipated that the first waves from a potential tsunami may reach the islands around 7:10 PM local time. Sirens across the islands are scheduled to sound at 4:10 PM, 5:10 PM, and 6:10 PM. Officials have advised residents to evacuate if the situation escalates and a tsunami occurs.
As reported by Hawaii’s emergency management agency, residents are urged to maintain a safe distance from any inland waterways and marinas that connect to the sea. They should also consider moving vessels into deeper water if possible. It’s suggested that buildings constructed with structural steel or reinforced concrete with more than ten stories might offer better protection against potential tsunami impacts.
In California, authorities have noted a possible tsunami arrival time around 12:15 AM local time on Wednesday.
Looking beyond the US, Japan’s weather agency has issued warnings about potential waves reaching heights of one meter, expected to hit the northern regions around 10 AM local time, with further waves anticipated along parts of East Honshu and southern Nanjing.
