8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Near Russia Sparks Pacific-Wide Tsunami Evacuations, Disruptions

A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering widespread tsunami warnings and evacuations across the Pacific region, including Japan, the US West Coast, Alaska, Hawaii, and multiple Pacific Islands. Japan issued evacuation orders for approximately 1.9 million residents along its Pacific coast, with tsunami waves ranging from 20 cm up to 3 meters recorded or forecasted in various areas, including Hokkaido and Tokyo Bay. In Russia's Sakhalin region, tsunami waves up to 3-4 meters caused flooding and minor damage, prompting a state of emergency. Authorities in multiple countries have urged residents and travelers to move to higher ground and follow official evacuation orders, while travel disruptions are affecting air, rail, and cruise ship itineraries. Environmental impacts include a mass stranding of whales on Japan's coast, likely linked to the seismic event. Australian officials emphasize no tsunami threat to their mainland but advise vigilance for travelers in affected Pacific areas, while travel insurance experts recommend securing coverage promptly to handle potential disruptions.