New Delhi, July 30: A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula at around 11:25 am local time on Wednesday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake, originally recorded as magnitude 8.7, is the strongest in the region since 1952, reports BBC.
Russia’s emergency ministry reported that tsunami waves between 3 to 4 metres (10–13 feet) were recorded, flooding parts of Severo-Kurilsk, a small port town of around 2,000 people. Several residents were injured during the evacuation process, including a woman who jumped out of a window, according to Russian state news agency TASS. Officials say all injuries are minor and no serious casualties have been reported so far.
Videos on social media show water surging inland near Severo-Kurilsk. Meanwhile, the quake triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific region.
Tsunami Alerts Issued Widely
• Japan: Waves of 30 cm (12 inches) have already hit Hokkaido in northern Japan. Authorities have issued tsunami warnings from Hokkaido to Kyushu and ordered residents in coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground.
• United States: Tsunami warnings are in place for Alaska and Hawaii, while a tsunami watch has been issued for Guam and other islands in Micronesia.
• Entire U.S. West Coast is under alert, according to U.S. tsunami authorities.
In Japan, workers at the Fukushima Daiichi and Daini nuclear plants have been evacuated to higher ground as a precaution. TEPCO, the plant operator, confirmed no damage or radiation leaks, but said it will continue monitoring. The region is expected to face strong aftershocks, with magnitudes reaching up to 7.5 likely over the next month, said Russia’s Geophysical Service.
This is the latest in a series of quakes affecting Kamchatka. Just last week, the area experienced five earthquakes, including a 7.4 magnitude tremor.
US President Donald Trump acknowledged the situation on social media, urging people in Hawaii and Alaska to follow updates from tsunami.gov and to “stay strong and stay safe.” Authorities across the Pacific are urging residents in coastal areas to avoid beaches, stay out of the water, and move inland as needed.
