July 30, 2025 — A huge earthquake with a magnitude of 8.8 hit off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering tsunami warnings across the Pacific Ocean, including in Japan, the U.S. (Hawaii), Mexico, and the Philippines.
The earthquake struck around 136 km (84 miles) east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a city in Russia’s far east, early Wednesday morning local time. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) first measured it at 8.0, later raising it to 8.8, making it one of the strongest quakes in years.
The quake shook buildings, damaged homes, and caused power and mobile outages in parts of Kamchatka. Several people were injured but no serious casualties have been reported yet. Strong aftershocks, including one measured at 6.9, continue to rattle the region.
Tsunami Warnings Issued Across the Pacific
United States (Hawaii):
The U.S. Coast Guard closed all ports in Hawaii and ordered ships to evacuate. People are fleeing coastal areas for higher ground. Roads in Honolulu are jammed as residents try to stay safe.
Japan:
Authorities recorded tsunami waves up to 50 cm (1.6 feet) in Miyagi Prefecture. Residents along the coast were told to move to higher ground. Experts say larger waves may still be coming.
Mexico:
The Mexican Navy warned citizens to stay away from Pacific beaches, from Baja California to Chiapas. Strong currents are expected along port entrances.
Philippines:
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology advised people living in coastal provinces to stay away from the beach, as waves of up to 1 meter (3.2 feet) may hit later today.
Experts Warn of Ongoing Risks
Seismologist Sakai Shinichi from the University of Tokyo said this event is similar to the 1952 Kamchatka earthquake, which also triggered a destructive tsunami. He warned that more waves may be coming and danger is not over yet.
Tsunami specialist Philip Liu added that the most dangerous waves are expected to travel toward the central Pacific, making islands like Hawaii especially at risk.
Scenes from the Ground
In Honolulu, people were seen rushing to buy supplies and heading for mountains.
In Russia, photos show buildings damaged and coastal towns flooded in parts of Kamchatka and the Kuril Islands.
In Japan, waves hit harbors and ports, pushing heavy water onto streets.
What You Should Do If in a Tsunami Zone, Move to higher ground immediately, Do not wait for official confirmation if you feel shaking or see water receding, Stay away from beaches and harbors and Follow local emergency instructions and alerts.
