July 30, 2025 – In a major seismic event early Wednesday morning, a powerful earthquake registering 8.8 on the Richter scale struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, the strongest in the region since 1952. The quake, which occurred at a shallow depth of approximately 19 kilometers, triggered widespread tsunami warnings and evacuations across multiple countries in the Pacific Basin.
Tsunami Strikes Severo-Kurilsk, Russia
In Russia’s Far East, the town of Severo-Kurilsk in the Kuril Islands was hit hard, with tsunami waves estimated between 3–4 meters. Evacuation orders were swiftly enforced, and over 900,000 residents were relocated from coastal areas. Emergency responders have reported shoreline damage and multiple injuries, although no fatalities have been confirmed at this time. Dramatic drone footage captured the inundation of roads and homes near the coast.
U.S. Pacific States and Hawaii on Alert
The United States issued tsunami warnings and advisories across Hawaii, Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, and the entire Pacific West Coast, including California, Oregon, and Washington. In Hawaii, waves of approximately 1.8 meters (6 feet) were recorded at Midway Atoll, prompting the activation of sirens and evacuation protocols across several islands. West Coast residents were urged to stay clear of beaches and harbors, as moderate wave activity and strong currents are expected throughout the day.
Japan (Hokkaido to Tokyo Bay):
Waves reached 30‑40 cm (1–1.3 ft) in at least 16 locations, even though initial forecasts warned of up to 3 m. Over 900,000 people were evacuated, and precautionary measures were taken at facilities like the Fukushima nuclear plant, where workers were moved to safety. No damage reported to nuclear infrastructure
Global Impact & Precautions
Tsunami advisories have been extended to Mexico, Ecuador, the Philippines, Taiwan, and several Pacific island nations, where authorities expect wave heights of 0.5–1 meter. Although Australia and New Zealand remain unaffected for now, emergency management agencies are closely monitoring the situation.
In Japan, precautionary evacuations were carried out at critical sites including the Fukushima nuclear plant, where staff were moved to safe zones. Officials confirmed no damage to nuclear infrastructure.
This significant seismic event has prompted a coordinated international emergency response. Authorities continue to monitor wave activity and advise the public in affected regions to follow official guidance, stay away from coastlines, and prepare for further alerts.
⚠️ This is a developing story. Updates will follow as new information becomes available.
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