Massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck Russia’s east coast unleashing a devastating tsunami that engulfed Kamchatka’s coastline with waves reaching up to four meters. Powerful tsunami also impacted western United States coast prompting widespread alerts across the Pacific.
In Severo-Kurilsk city on Russia’s east coast powerful waves swept through inundating buildings. Weak infrastructure in remote areas led to several injuries. Cars and trees were washed away by surging waters.
The powerful tremor hit off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula Wednesday morning. Buildings shook across various regions. Essential infrastructure including schools and hospitals, suffered damage. A kindergarten building’s wall collapsed, though no children or teachers were present at the time.
While no major casualties reported Russia and Japan, along with other Pacific Rim nations, remain on high alert, fearing aftershocks. Kamchatka Governor Vladimir Solodov stated this earthquake is the strongest in decades advising locals to avoid coastal areas. Sergei Lebedev, regional head of the emergency ministry, confirmed tsunami waves three to four meters high recorded in parts of Kamchatka.
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Following the quake, tsunami warnings issued for multiple nations including Russia, Japan, Taiwan, Philippines, China, and the United States. In Hokkaido, Japan, cautionary sirens blared. Residents evacuated from schools, homes, and factories in many areas. Homeless individuals on Hokkaido’s coast sought refuge on fire station roofs.
