Honolulu, Hawaii – A powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia, early Sunday, triggering a tsunami threat message for parts of the Pacific.
According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, the quake occurred at 6:49 UTC (8:49 p.m. HST Saturday) with an epicenter located at 52.5°N, 160.7°E and a depth of 48 miles. Tsunami waves hazardous to coastal communities are possible within 300 kilometers (about 186 miles) of the epicenter, particularly along the Russian coastline near Petropavlovsk.
As of 0701 UTC, there is no tsunami threat to Hawaii, Alaska, California, or other U.S. Pacific territories. However, coastal authorities are closely monitoring conditions in case of a Pacific-wide impact.
Petropavlovsk, a major port city in Kamchatka, could see tsunami wave activity as early as 0728 UTC. Residents in affected Russian coastal regions have been advised to remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities.
Tsunami impacts can vary widely depending on shoreline shape, tide level, and underwater terrain. Even small waves may pose significant danger near coastlines.
The next update from the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center is expected within the hour, or sooner if conditions change.
