8.8 Quake Spurs Pacific Tsunami Warnings, No Fatalities

A massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering widespread tsunami warnings and evacuation orders across the Pacific, including Japan, Hawaii, Alaska, and the U.S. West Coast. Although initial concerns predicted catastrophic waves and damage, authorities later reported only small tsunamis, strong coastal currents, some injuries, and no fatalities. Rapid early warning systems and coordinated evacuations allowed millions to move to safety, particularly in Japan and Hawaii. By Wednesday, most evacuation orders were lifted and warnings were downgraded to advisories, though officials urged continued caution due to lingering hazardous currents and aftershocks. The event demonstrated the effectiveness of modern disaster preparedness and early-warning protocols. Experts highlighted the ongoing risk in seismically active regions despite the absence of major destruction.