A powerful earthquake initially measured at magnitude 8.7 has now been upgraded to 8.8 by the United States Geological Survey, after it struck off the coast of Russia’s far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday. The tremor triggered widespread tsunami alerts across the Pacific, with waves as high as 3 to 4 meters (10 to 13 feet) already recorded in several parts of Kamchatka.
In response, U.S. authorities have issued tsunami warnings for Alaska and Hawaii, while Japan has ordered evacuations across broad stretches of its coastal regions. A tsunami watch is also in effect for Guam and several other islands in Micronesia as officials monitor for further developments.
In Japan, the tsunami has reached the northern part of Hokkaido prefecture, according to local broadcaster NHK. The first wave, estimated at 30cm (12 inches), hit the port city of Nemuro in northeastern Hokkaido. Authorities have warned that subsequent waves could be higher, urging coastal residents to remain alert.
