Tsunami Alerts Issued After 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Off Russian Coast
On July 29, 2025, an 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck near the Russian coast, prompting tsunami alerts for several US states and Alaska. Initially measured at 8.0 and later revised to 8.7 by the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake’s depth was recorded at approximately 19 to 19.3 kilometers (about 12 miles), raising concerns about potential tsunami generation.
The USGS reported that the epicenter was about 78 miles east of Petropavlovsk Kamchatsky. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or fatalities from nearby coastal communities.
Japan, situated relatively close to the epicenter—about 160 miles from Hokkaido—has also reacted, issuing a tsunami recommendation and warning of possible waves reaching about one yard along its Pacific coastline.
Hawaii
- A tsunami watch was initially issued soon after the earthquake, upgraded to a warning around 2:43 PM Hawaii Time.
- Officials have urged residents of all Hawaiian islands to evacuate coastal areas as they may face tsunami waves.
- Early wave arrivals were expected around 7:17 PM (~1:17 AM UTC).
Alaska
- Tsunami warnings have been activated for parts of the Aleutian Islands (Shemya, Adak), with wave arrival times predicted between 4:46 PM and 5:46 PM.
US West Coast and British Columbia
- The region is under a tsunami clock, indicating a potential threat is being assessed. Hawaii remains at the highest alert level with a warning status.
Current tsunami alerts include:
| Region | Alert Type |
| Hawaii | Tsunami warning |
| Aleutian Islands (AK) | Tsunami warning |
| South Central/Southeast Alaska | Tsunami Advisory |
| California | Tsunami Watch |
| Oregon | Tsunami Watch |
| Washington State | Tsunami Watch |
| Guam | Tsunami Watch/Advisory |
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow.
