An earthquake of historic strength has triggered widespread tsunami alerts across the Pacific, prompting urgent evacuations and heightened coastal precautions.

A massive magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck about 85 miles off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula Tuesday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred at a depth of nearly 12 miles and was initially reported at 8.0 and 8.7 before being upgraded. Aftershocks measuring 6.3 and 6.9 were also recorded in the same area, raising fears of further instability.

Tsunami Warnings Across the Pacific

The quake sparked tsunami warnings for Hawaii and Alaska, while advisories were issued for California, Oregon, Washington, Guam, and American Samoa. The California coast was upgraded from a watch to an advisory. If tsunami waves are generated, officials estimate arrival along the California coast at 11:50 p.m. and in Los Angeles around 1 a.m. local time. Huntington Beach announced pier and beach closures as a precaution.

In Hawaii, the first tsunami waves are forecast to arrive just after 7:15 p.m. local time. Oahu Emergency Management warns of potentially destructive waves, and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency has activated its Emergency Operations Center and Joint Information Center. Sirens are sounding on all islands every ten minutes over a three-hour period. Residents in coastal zones, including Honolulu, are being urged to evacuate or move to at least the fourth floor of a sturdy building.

Advisories for Japan’s Pacific Coast

Japan’s Meteorological Agency has issued advisories for regions from Hokkaido to Kyushu. A tsunami approximately 1 meter (3 feet) high is expected to reach Hokkaido around 10:00 a.m. local time, with subsequent waves forecast along eastern Honshu and southern Kyushu later in the day. Authorities warn residents to stay clear of coasts and river mouths and not to approach the water to observe incoming waves.

Officials Urge Vigilance and Safety

The National Weather Service cautions that tsunami danger can persist for many hours after the initial wave, and subsequent waves may be larger than the first. Officials stress that even seemingly small waves can produce powerful currents and dangerous flooding. A tsunami warning indicates imminent threat and the potential for destructive flooding and currents, while a tsunami watch signals that a distant quake has occurred and a tsunami is possible.

Emergency management teams across affected regions are coordinating evacuation efforts, preparing shelters, and monitoring wave activity. Coastal residents are advised to follow local alerts, move inland or to higher ground, and avoid returning to low-lying areas until authorities declare it safe.