Hawaii is currently under a tsunami watch following a powerful 8.7 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued the initial alert around 1:33 p.m. HST, with a potential arrival time of 7:17 p.m. HST for the first waves to reach the islands.
While no evacuation order has been issued at the time of this article, residents and visitors are urged to stay alert and take the following precautions:
What You Should Know:
- All shores are vulnerable, even those not facing the quake zone, as tsunami waves can wrap around islands.
- The situation is being closely monitored by state and local authorities.
- This is a tsunami watch, not yet a warning, which means a tsunami is possible, not certain.
What to Do Now:
- Stay away from beaches, harbors, and coastal trails until the all-clear is given.
- Do not go to the beach to watch the ocean—tsunamis move faster than you can run.
- Follow local news, county alerts, or Civil Defense updates.
- Have your emergency kit and gas tank ready just in case an evacuation is ordered.
If You're Visiting the Islands:
We know you may be here on vacation, but safety comes first. Hawaii’s emergency response teams are highly trained and equipped to handle these situations. If you're unsure what to do, check with your hotel front desk, host, or local officials.
Stay Calm, Stay Safe
Most tsunami watches in Hawaii do not result in major waves, but it’s always better to prepare than to panic. Even small surges can cause strong currents and flooding in harbors and low-lying areas.
We’ll keep this article updated with new information as it becomes available.
For official updates, visit the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center or follow Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) on social media.
Stay safe and take care of each other.
If you’re on the island right now, and you're unsure where to go or what to do, reach out through our site and we’ll point you in the right direction.
– The I’m In Hawaii Team