Tsunami waves have started reaching parts of Hawaii following a major 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Severo-Kurilsk, Russia. In response, tsunami warnings and advisories have been issued across multiple Pacific coastal regions, including Hawaii, Alaska, the U.S. West Coast, and Japan. Residents have been urged to stay alert and take safety precautions as emergency efforts mobilize.
President Donald Trump addressed the situation on social media, emphasizing the seriousness of the tsunami threat. He confirmed that a tsunami warning is in effect for Hawaii, with watches extended to Alaska, the U.S. Pacific Coast, and Japan. He directed people to tsunami.gov for updates and urged everyone to stay safe amid the ongoing crisis.
In Hawaii, tsunami waves over five feet were reported on Maui’s north-central coast in Kahului, triggering widespread evacuations. The Honolulu Department of Emergency Management warned residents to avoid evacuation zones and act immediately. Traffic congestion and emergency shelter openings have been reported, as officials advise people to move to higher ground.
High-profile figures like Oprah Winfrey have stepped in to assist evacuation efforts, opening private roads for residents and coordinating with law enforcement and FEMA. Authorities in Honolulu are managing large numbers of evacuees to ensure orderly and safe movement away from danger zones.
The earthquake’s effects have been severe locally near Severo-Kurilsk, where a state of emergency was declared after tsunami waves damaged boats and pushed inland storage containers. In Japan, over 1.9 million people were ordered to evacuate coastal areas, with many taking shelter on rooftops in the northern island of Hokkaido. Fortunately, no major damage has been reported there.
Other Pacific countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, China, and Mexico have also issued tsunami warnings and watches. California is preparing with helicopter patrols and evacuation orders for boaters. Emergency authorities across the Pacific remain vigilant as the situation continues to evolve, urging residents to follow safety guidance.
