Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – 8 PM – The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) has confirmed that tsunami waves are now impacting the State of Hawaiʻi, and the TSUNAMI WARNING continues in effect. This comes after the preliminary magnitude of the earthquake off the Coast of Kamchatka, Russia, was again upgraded, this time to 8.8 (Moment Magnitude).
Tsunami Wave Activity Detected in Hawaiʻi: The PTWC’s latest bulletin provides the following measurements from within the state:
- Haleiwa, Oʻahu: A coastal measurement of 1.21 meters (4.0 feet).
- Hanalei, Kauaʻi: A coastal measurement of 0.90 meters (3.0 feet).
- Nawiliwili, Kauaʻi: A coastal measurement of 0.23 meters (0.8 feet).
The PTWC states: “A tsunami has been generated that could cause damage along coastlines of all islands in the State of Hawaii. Urgent action should be taken to protect lives and property.“
The warning center provides a critical update on the ongoing danger, noting that “A tsunami is a series of long ocean waves… The danger may persist for many more hours as waves activity continues.” It is important to remember that tsunami waves efficiently wrap around islands, and all shores are at risk, no matter which direction they face.
Residents in all coastal areas are urged to remain in safe, designated areas and to not return until a cancellation is issued by Civil Defense. Further messages will be issued hourly or sooner as conditions warrant.