Tsunami waves have begun reaching the shores of Hawaii following a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake that struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula earlier on Wednesday. The seismic event, recorded at a shallow depth by the US Geological Survey, has triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific region.
In response, the US Coast Guard has taken immediate precautions. “All harbours in Hawaii have been closed to incoming vessel traffic. Vessels transiting within the vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands or inbound to ports in Hawaii shall remain offshore until conditions subside,” said a statement from the Coast Guard Oceania District, as quoted by CNN.
Evacuation Alerts Issued as Waves Surge in Hanalei
As the tsunami continues to impact the region, Hanalei on the Hawaiian island of Kauai has recorded a surge of three feet above normal sea level, based on data from coastal sea-level gauges. Waves up to 13 feet (4 meters) are forecasted to affect areas as far as Japan, Alaska, the U.S. West Coast, and Russia’s eastern shoreline.
WATCH: Live webcams catch waves hitting Hawaii coasts after tsunami strikes Russia’s Kamchatka
Authorities have issued evacuation alerts for low-lying coastal zones, advising residents and tourists to move to higher ground. People across Hawaii have been urged to stay away from beaches and waterfronts and follow all official safety instructions as further waves and hazardous currents remain a threat.
