Honolulu, HI – A tsunami advisory remains in effect for the entire state of Hawaii today following a massive undersea earthquake that occurred off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia.
According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu, the 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck at 1:25 p.m. Tuesday with its epicenter located at 52.2° North and 160.0° East. Though no tsunami warning has been issued for the U.S. mainland, wave activity affecting coastal areas in Hawaii has been recorded and is being closely monitored.
Preliminary measurements show tsunami wave activity across the Pacific, with wave heights ranging from less than a foot to nearly 6 feet in various locations. In Hawaii, Kahului on Maui recorded the highest tsunami wave so far at 5.7 feet. Other parts of the islands including Hilo, Hanalei and Haleiwa reported wave heights between 3 and 5 feet earlier this morning.
The advisory warns residents and visitors to remain cautious near shorelines, harbors and marinas, as unusual wave action and strong currents pose risks to swimmers, boaters and beachgoers. The waves are not expected to cause widespread flooding, but impacts could continue for several more hours.
Emergency management officials continue to monitor conditions and will issue hourly updates or more frequent alerts if necessary. Residents are encouraged to stay informed via local news sources and the National Weather Service.
There are no reports of injuries or major property damage at this time. Officials advise staying off beaches and out of the water until the advisory is lifted.
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