Massive 8.8 Earthquake Off Russia Triggers Tsunami Across Pacific, Hawaiian Warning Lifted

On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, a powerful earthquake measuring 8.8 magnitude struck off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, setting off tsunami warnings across the Pacific Ocean, including Hawaii, Alaska, and the U.S. West Coast.

The earthquake occurred approximately 85 miles east of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula at a depth of nearly 12 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It was one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded globally. Following the initial quake, significant aftershocks of magnitudes 6.3 and 6.9 were also detected in the area.

As a result of the quake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTSC) issued warnings and advisories. Hawaii experienced tsunami waves during high tide, with water gauges recording wave heights reaching up to 4.9 feet in Hilo and 4 feet in Kahului, Maui. Officials promptly opened shelters and urged residents to move inland as a precaution.

Despite initial warnings, the tsunami waves that hit Hawaii and parts of the U.S. West Coast were relatively small, causing some flooding in shoreline areas but no major damage was reported. The PTSC gradually downgraded warnings to advisories and eventually lifted them by early Wednesday morning Hawaii time.

Similarly, the California coast observed modest tsunami waves following the event. These were sufficient to prompt advisories and watches but did not result in significant damage.

Local news reports and footage captured by cameras in Oahu’s North Shore confirmed the arrival of the first tsunami waves on July 29 evening. The tsunami's impact was closely monitored over several hours until the threat was deemed diminished.

This seismic event highlights the importance of earthquake and tsunami monitoring systems in Pacific Rim countries, particularly for vulnerable coastal regions. Emergency services remain ready to respond promptly should future warnings be issued.