HONOLULU, Hawaii (July 30, 2025) – A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck off Russia’s far eastern coast has triggered widespread tsunami warnings across the Pacific Ocean, placing Hawaii, Alaska, and the U.S. West Coast on high alert. According to the latest reports from CNN and real-time data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), tsunami waves as high as five feet have already been recorded in Kahului, on Maui Island’s north-central shore.
Hawaiian officials are warning that waves could reach up to 10 feet, and residents are being urgently advised to evacuate to higher ground. Governor Josh Green has issued a public statement, cautioning that the tsunami may circle the entire Hawaiian archipelago, rather than hitting a single location. “This is a statewide threat,” Green warned, emphasizing that low-lying coastal areas remain under immediate risk.
Governor Urges Evacuation as Tsunami Threat Circles Hawaiian Islands After Russia Quake
- NOAA confirms five-foot waves have reached Kahului; other coastal regions of Maui and Oahu are seeing rapid surges.
- First tsunami waves have been detected across the Pacific, hitting parts of Japan, Russia, and Alaska earlier today.
- The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office in California has issued evacuation warnings for those aboard vessels in Monterey Harbour, including Breakwater Cove and the Coast Guard Pier.
- Emergency sirens have been activated across Hawaii, and shelters are being opened for displaced residents.
This 8.8 magnitude earthquake is among the six strongest quakes ever recorded globally, raising fears of prolonged and repeated wave surges throughout the day.
Meteorologists and seismologists are monitoring the situation closely, warning that tsunami waves can arrive in multiple surges over several hours, and the second or third waves could be more destructive than the first.
What You Should Do:
- Move inland or to elevations at least 100 feet above sea level if you’re near the coast.
- Avoid all beaches, harbors, and shorelines until officials declare them safe.
- Stay tuned to emergency alerts and official state advisories for updates on road closures, shelter locations, and evacuation orders.
This remains a developing story. Stay with us for real-time updates on the Pacific tsunami threat.
