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A powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific, with waves recorded in Hawaii, California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska.

As of 7 a.m. ET on July 30, tsunami advisories and warnings remained active, according to the National Tsunami Warning Center.

President Donald Trump posted on social media, urging Americans to "STAY STRONG AND STAY SAFE" and to monitor updates on the tsunami.gov online dashboard.

Earthquake and Tsunami Trigger

The earthquake struck at approximately 7:24 p.m. ET on July 29, 78 miles southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

Within hours, tsunami waves were observed along the U.S. Pacific coast and Hawaii, with the National Weather Service cautioning that even waves under 1 foot can create dangerous, life-threatening currents.

“Tsunami waves may travel as fast as jet planes over deep waters, only slowing down when reaching shallow waters,” the NOAA explains.

Tsunami Warnings: Wave Heights by Region

Hawaii

• Waves reached up to 5.7 feet in Kahului, Maui, and 4.9 feet in Hilo.
• The tsunami warning was downgraded to an advisory, and evacuation orders were lifted by 7:45 a.m. ET, according to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on X.

California

• The highest wave recorded was 3.6 feet in Crescent City.
• Advisory remains in effect from Humboldt to the Mexico border.

Oregon and Washington

• Tsunami advisories cover the coast from California to Washington’s Slip Point.
• Wave heights: 1.4 feet in Port Orford, Oregon, and 0.7 feet in La Push, Washington.

Alaska

• Tsunami advisories remain for the Aleutian Islands.
• Highest waves include 2.7 feet in Adak and 1.8 feet in Amchitka.

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What Is a Tsunami?

Underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions often cause tsunamis. As waves approach shallow coastal waters, they grow in height and strength. 

Despite being popularly referred to as "tidal waves," they are unrelated to tides and should be approached with extreme caution.
Learn more about tsunamis here.

Understanding Tsunami Alert Levels

According to the National Weather Service:

• Tsunami Warning: Widespread flooding expected or occurring. Take immediate action.
• Tsunami Advisory: Dangerous waves and currents likely. Avoid beaches and harbors.
• Tsunami Watch: Earthquake detected, tsunami possible. Stay alert.
• Tsunami Information Statement: No tsunami expected. Remain informed.

“Even a small tsunami can sweep people off their feet or damage boats and harbors,” warns the NWS.