The tsunami advisory for parts of Alaska remains in effect after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula at 11:58 a.m. Pacific time on Thursday, Sept. 18.
According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, tsunami waves have now been observed following the quake, though the threat remains localized to certain coasts.
Forecast models indicate waves of one to three metres above tide level are possible along parts of Russia’s Kamchatka coastline. For Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center continues to list the advisory for the stretch between Amchitka Pass and Attu Island. The first waves were forecast to reach Shemya around 11:25 a.m. Pacific time.
No tsunami threat exists for British Columbia or Haida Gwaii.
The PTWC lists potential arrival times for other regions in the Pacific, including Hawaii overnight. Initial estimates place first waves in Nawiliwili, Kauai at 5:51 p.m. Pacific time Sept. 18 (12:51 a.m. local time, Sept. 19), with Honolulu shortly after.
Authorities emphasize that a tsunami is a series of waves that can continue for hours, with later waves sometimes larger than the first. Impacts can vary depending on tides and local geography.
Residents in advisory zones are urged to stay out of the water and off beaches, and to follow local emergency instructions. Mariners should move to deeper water where possible.
More information and updates are available at tsunami.gov. The next official message is expected within the hour.
