Kamchatka Quake Triggers Pacific Evacuations, Warnings

A massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering tsunami warnings and widespread evacuations across the Pacific, affecting regions including Hawaii, Japan, Alaska, the U.S. West Coast, and Russia. In Hawaii, cruise ships left ports abruptly, stranding some passengers as authorities urged evacuations and coastal avoidance. Tsunami waves reached up to 5.7 feet in Hawaii and nearly five feet along parts of California’s coast, but the damage was less severe than feared and most evacuation orders were later lifted. In Japan, nearly two million residents were ordered to evacuate, though prompt responses helped avoid major disaster. The Russian port town of Severo-Kurilsk was flooded, leading to the evacuation of 2,000 residents, with only minor injuries reported. Authorities continue to warn of potential aftershocks and further waves, advising vigilance until all advisories are cleared.