A colossal magnitude 8.8 earthquake hit off the coast of Kamchatka, Russia at 7:24pm EST (2:24am local time), shaking the Pacific Rim and causing widespread alarm from Japan to the US West Coast. The tremor struck approximately 84 miles east-southeast of Kamchatka and is now ranked as the sixth strongest earthquake ever recorded.
Tsunami warnings were issued across the Pacific, affecting millions of people in regions including Japan, Russia, Hawaii, Guam, California, Washington, and Oregon. Devastating tsunami waves have already hit parts of northern Japan and Russia, flooding buildings and leading to emergency hospitalisations.
Local officials have confirmed at least one death as rescue operations continue. Governor Josh urged residents to take immediate action, stating, “Move off the beaches and out of harbors immediately. Do not wait.”
Authorities remain on high alert as aftershocks are expected in the coming hours, increasing tension throughout the affected areas. Emergency services are advising residents to stay vigilant and follow all evacuation orders to ensure safety.
Originally published by UKNIP.
