Tsunami monitoring stations have confirmed wave detection at Midway Atoll, located between Alaska and Hawaii, following the catastrophic 8.7-magnitude earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. Emergency authorities now warn that the first tsunami waves are expected to strike Hawaii within 35 to 40 minutes, prompting urgent final evacuation calls.
Residents across the Hawaiian Islands have been advised that this is the last opportunity to reach higher ground, as destructive waves may imminently impact coastal regions. The Hawaiian Emergency Management Agency has activated emergency sirens, opened shelters, and ordered the full evacuation of all low-lying areas.
This comes amid a massive Pacific-wide alert, with tsunami waves already confirmed in Japan, Russia, and other parts of the Pacific Rim. The tsunami’s momentum across the ocean basin reflects the severity of the original seismic event—the strongest recorded in the Kamchatka region since 1952.
Authorities are warning of potential multi-meter waves, unpredictable coastal surges, and dangerous currents that could persist for hours. All maritime traffic has been suspended, and airports in Hawaii are preparing for possible disruptions.
Officials are urging the public to stay away from beaches, harbors, and river mouths, and to rely only on verified emergency alerts for updates.
