Quakes Off Russia Trigger, Then Cancel Tsunami Warnings

A series of strong earthquakes, the largest measuring between 7.4 and 7.5, struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Sunday, prompting tsunami warnings for Russian coastal areas, Hawaii, and Japan. The US Geological Survey and other seismic monitors reported several tremors above magnitude 6.6. Authorities initially warned of potential tsunami waves up to one meter for parts of Russia and up to 0.3 meters for Hawaii and Japan, but these warnings were later downgraded or canceled as analysis showed minimal threat. In Kamchatka’s populated areas, waves of 15–60 centimeters were anticipated, and residents were urged to stay away from the shore. No casualties or significant damage were immediately reported, and the expected tsunami did not reach Hawaii. The event underscored the effectiveness of early warning systems in the Pacific region.