A massive 8.7 magnitude earthquake off Russia’s far eastern coast has triggered tsunami waves that have already begun reaching multiple countries. The first waves hit the Russian port town of Severo-Kurilsk, while smaller waves were also reported in Japan’s Hokkaido region. Meanwhile, the US West Coast, Hawaii, Chile, the Solomon Islands, and other regions remain on high alert as larger waves are expected soon.
Port Town in Russia Submerged
According to early reports, the tsunami waves struck Severo-Kurilsk, a town of about 2,000 people located on the Kuril Islands. The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations confirmed the event, saying, “The tsunami flooded parts of the port town of Severo-Kurilsk … The population has been evacuated.”
Videos shared on social media showed seawater gushing into streets, covering parts of buildings and infrastructure.
Japan Reports Early Impact
Japan’s public broadcaster NHK confirmed that waves had reached northern Hokkaido, measuring about 30 centimeters (1 foot) in height. However, the Japan Meteorological Agency warned that much larger waves—possibly up to 3 meters—could still hit.
Forecasts indicate potential tsunami waves from northern Japan down to Wakayama near Osaka, prompting the government to issue widespread advisories.
US Coastline and Pacific Nations on Alert
The US National Tsunami Warning Center in Alaska issued warnings for parts of the Aleutian Islands and watches across the West Coast, including California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii. The advisory also extends to much of Alaska’s coastline, including the panhandle.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center predicted that waves between 1 to 3 meters above normal sea level may strike Hawaii, Japan, Chile, and the Solomon Islands. In some areas like Russia and Ecuador, waves could exceed 3 meters, posing serious risk to coastal communities.
Urgent Advisories and Warnings
Emergency services across multiple nations have urged residents to evacuate low-lying areas and avoid coastlines. Governments continue to monitor sea-level changes and advise the public to follow official updates and stay out of the water until the tsunami threat passes.
