A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Tuesday, triggering tsunami warnings for Alaska and Hawaii, and advisories for the U.S. West Coast, Guam, American Samoa, and parts of Japan.
The quake occurred about 85 miles offshore at a depth of 12 miles, followed by aftershocks of 6.3 and 6.9 magnitude. The U.S. Geological Survey initially reported lower magnitudes before upgrading it.
Tsunami waves are expected to reach Hawaii around 7:15 p.m., California by 11:50 p.m., and Los Angeles around 1 a.m. Huntington Beach is closing its pier and beaches as a precaution.
Sirens are sounding across Hawaii, and residents in coastal areas, including Honolulu, are urged to evacuate or seek higher ground. Japan also issued advisories, expecting waves up to 1 meter along its Pacific Coast.
Officials warn that tsunami danger may last for hours and the first wave may not be the largest.
