Tsunami Threat Prompts Evacuations Across Hawaii and Northern California

Download IPFS

A powerful undersea earthquake off Russia’s Pacific coast has triggered a tsunami warning for Hawaii and parts of Northern California, prompting emergency evacuations and widespread alerts across the region. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the quake measured 8.8 on the Richter scale, placing it among the most powerful earthquakes in over a century.

The tremor struck near Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia, at 4:24 p.m. Pacific Time. In response, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Tsunami Warning—meaning the potential for hazardous flooding—for areas from Cape Mendocino to the Oregon border and all of Hawaii. A broader Tsunami Advisory, which signals dangerous ocean conditions, was issued for the rest of California’s coastline.

Hawaii is bracing for waves of up to 10 feet, with the first expected to hit around 7:17 p.m. local time. Emergency sirens were activated throughout Maui and Oahu, and residents were urged to move to higher ground. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi warned, “Do not stay near the beaches.” Flights into Hawaii from major cities were either diverted or cancelled, with Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines issuing travel waivers. Hilo International Airport suspended operations to support evacuations.

In California, Crescent City, a town historically vulnerable to tsunamis, is predicted to see waves around 11:50 p.m. local time. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office issued evacuation warnings for people aboard boats in Moss Landing. National Weather Service meteorologist Dylan Flynn cautioned that while the San Francisco Bay Area is unlikely to flood, dangerous currents could damage harbours and pose risks to anyone near the water.

Across the Pacific, Japan issued evacuation advisories for over 900,000 residents after the same quake caused a tsunami to reach its northern coast. Fortunately, no injuries or major damage were reported.

Former President Donald Trump called for national vigilance, posting on Truth Social: “STAY STRONG AND STAY SAFE.” The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) stressed that tsunami events can involve multiple waves over several hours. Authorities continue to monitor conditions, urging the public to heed all evacuation orders and avoid coastlines until further notice.