A powerful magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck offshore of Russia’s remote Kamchatka Peninsula early Wednesday (July 30, 2025), rattling the sparsely populated region and generating tsunami waves that swept across the Pacific Ocean to reach Hawaii—and triggered widespread evacuations in between.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake occurred at a depth of approximately 19 km, about 120 km east-southeast of the city of Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky. Initial measurements ranged from 8.0 to 8.7 before being upgraded to 8.8 magnitude.
In the Kamchatka region and nearby Severo‑Kurilsk, tsunami waves between 3–5 metres (10–16 feet) inundated coastal areas, partially flooding the port and fish‑processing facilities, damaging infrastructure, and prompting the evacuation of around 2,000 residents. Though injuries were reported, no fatalities have been confirmed.
Authorities said the earthquake was the strongest in the region since the 1952 Kamchatka mega‑quake, which similarly generated a far-reaching tsunami.
Tsunami warnings and advisories were issued for Japan, the U.S. (including Hawaii, Alaska, and the West Coast), as well as parts of South America and Oceania. Japan’s meteorological agency warned of waves up to 3 metres (10 feet) hitting coastal areas, and began evacuating tens of thousands along its eastern shores. In Hawaii, sirens blared as officials ordered some coastal residents to evacuate to higher ground or inner floors of buildings.
In Honolulu and other parts of Oahu, waves between 1 and 1.2 metres (3–4 feet) above sea level were observed. Governor Josh Green said no destructive waves had struck the islands so far, although water reportedly receded in some areas, indicating wave activity offshore. Traffic gridlocked as residents complied with evacuation orders, and flights were canceled at Hilo International Airport to ease emergency movements. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center cautioned that “destructive tsunami waves” were expected and that multiple waves could arrive over many hours.
The tsunami warning remains in effect while officials monitor ongoing seismic activity and subsequent waves. Authorities urged residents across Hawaii, Japan, and the U.S. West Coast to stay alert, avoid shorelines, and follow official guidance. Experts note that aftershocks—with magnitudes up to 6.9—are being recorded and may continue for days as seismic adjustment occurs.