A tsunami advisory has been issued for the U.S. West Coast after a powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. The earthquake happened at 4:25 p.m. PDT, about 126 kilometers east-southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, at a depth of 19.3 kilometers.
The National Weather Service’s Tsunami Warning Center has alerted residents along the California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and British Columbia coasts. The advisory means that dangerous waves and strong currents are possible, but widespread flooding is not expected.
People living in coastal areas are urged to stay away from beaches, harbors, and marinas. Officials warn against trying to watch the waves, as even small surges can cause serious injuries or damage.
Estimated Tsunami Wave Arrival Times (PDT):
- Long Beach, CA – 11:45 p.m. (July 29)
- Monterey, CA – 12:15 a.m. (July 30)
- San Francisco, CA – 12:40 a.m. (July 30)
- Los Angeles Harbor, CA – 1:05 a.m. (July 30)
- Newport Beach, CA – 1:10 a.m. (July 30)
Waves are expected to be 1 to 2 feet or less in most areas. Still, surging water can damage boats, docks, and low-lying coastal infrastructure.
Hawaii is also under a separate tsunami warning, with different arrival times and risk levels.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates at www.tsunami.gov and follow instructions from local emergency services.
