A massive earthquake struck near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula early Wednesday, July 30, 2025. The earthquake measured 8.8 in magnitude, making it one of the strongest ever recorded. This earthquake triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific, alarming countries and communities from Russia and Japan to Hawaii, Alaska, Peru, and Chile.
Soon after the earthquake, sirens wailed and emergency alerts were sent out. Many people across the region rushed to evacuate coastal and low-lying areas. Officials warned everyone to move to higher ground quickly, as tsunami waves were approaching. They explained that the timing and size of the waves can vary and that the first wave is not always the biggest.
Tsunami waves began to hit several countries. In Russia, coastal towns saw flooding as giant waves swept ashore. Japan also recorded smaller tsunami waves along its northern coast, prompting evacuation orders for over 1.9 million people in the prefectures.
In Hawaii, families left the beaches and lowlands after warnings of possible waves several feet high. Shelters opened to help those forced to leave their homes.
Mexico, Peru, Colombia, and Chile also issued warnings and closed beaches. In some towns, schools were closed and streets were emptied as a precaution. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre and other agencies broadcast constant alerts, urging people to stay away from shores and rivers until all warnings were officially lifted.
In the United States, the warning spread from Alaska down the West Coast to California. Authorities told people to remain alert and ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Small waves between 1 and 3 feet reached parts of Oregon and California, but there were no major reports of damage or injury.
Statements from officials stressed that a tsunami is not like a typical surf wave. Instead, it is a fast-moving wall of water caused by the movement of the Earth’s crust. It can cause widespread flooding and damage within minutes of an earthquake. Even if the first wave is small, bigger and more dangerous waves may follow. Officials repeatedly told people, Do not return until all clear signals are given.
By Tuesday morning, many of the largest warnings had been cancelled or downgraded. However, people in some South American countries stayed on alert, as new waves and aftershocks could still pose a threat. Emergency services in all affected regions continued work to check for damage, clear debris, and help residents return once it was safe.
Experts say the quick warning and fast response helped save lives this time. But they remind everyone living near the ocean to always take earthquake and tsunami warnings seriously and move to safety right away.