Authorities in Hawaii have downgraded the tsunami warning to an advisory, following hours of concern after a powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula.
Initially, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center had issued a warning Tuesday evening, July 29, prompting widespread coastal evacuations across the islands, including in Honolulu, Maui, and other low-lying areas.
Sirens were activated, and residents were urged to seek higher ground immediately.
At approximately 10:38 pm HST, officials confirmed the warning had been revised to a tsunami advisory, indicating that the threat of major destructive waves had lessened.
While no widespread inundation was observed, authorities stressed that dangerous currents and sea level fluctuations could still pose hazards, especially around beaches, harbors, and marinas.
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Earlier wave measurements showed tsunami activity of up to 4 feet in parts of Maui, including Kahului, and 3 feet in Hilo.
Local emergency shelters were activated, flights were delayed, and harbors remained closed during the initial response.
Emergency management agencies are now urging residents to remain cautious, avoid shoreline areas, and follow updates as the advisory remains in place.
While the most severe danger appears to have passed, officials warn that residual wave activity may continue for several hours.
There have been no reports of injuries or significant property damage in Hawaii. Monitoring continues as aftershocks and ongoing seismic shifts ripple across the Pacific region.
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