A powerful magnitude 8 earthquake hit off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday, triggering tsunami warnings from both Japan and the US Tsunami Warning Centre.
According to the US Geological Survey, the quake was shallow, occurring at a depth of just 19.3 kilometres (12 miles), which increases the risk of significant surface shaking and tsunami generation.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that a tsunami up to 1 meter (3.28 feet) high could reach large coastal areas of Japan starting around 0100 GMT.
The US Tsunami Warning System also issued an alert for “hazardous tsunami waves” expected within the next three hours along some coastal regions of both Russia and Japan.
Authorities in affected areas are urging residents to stay alert, follow evacuation orders, and remain cautious as the situation develops.
Russia’s regional governor said, citing preliminary reports, that no injuries have been reported so far from the earthquake. However, a kindergarten was damaged in the affected area.
Describing the quake as the “strongest in decades,” the governor declared a tsunami threat and urged people living near the coastline to move to safer areas immediately.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and advise residents to stay alert and follow official instructions as the tsunami threat remains active.
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