Tsunami Advisory Issued After 7.8M Earthquake Near Russia

A tsunami advisory was issued on Thursday after a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Russia. The alert was directed toward parts of Alaska, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The quake was recorded at 12:05 p.m. PT near Kamchatka, a seismically active region in the Russian Far East. As of early Friday, there was no tsunami warning for Washington, Oregon, or California.

Tsunami Advisory Details and Location

NOAA confirmed that the advisory applied to Amchitka Pass, Alaska. This is a narrow stretch of water in the Aleutian Islands, where seismic events often trigger tsunami alerts.

A tsunami advisory means that small sea level changes or strong currents are possible. It is not the same as a tsunami warning, which indicates large, dangerous waves. Authorities said the advisory was precautionary.

Reuters reported that the earthquake originated in the Pacific Ocean east of Kamchatka. The region is known as part of the “Ring of Fire,” an area that produces many of the world’s most powerful quakes.

Impact and Safety Measures

The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center said that no immediate damage was reported. Coastal residents in Alaska were asked to stay alert for updates. Strong currents could affect boats, docks, and nearshore activities.

Officials also confirmed there was no advisory for the West Coast of the United States. That means California, Oregon, and Washington are not under threat at this time. Monitoring continues in case conditions change.

Large earthquakes in this region have caused serious tsunamis in the past. However, experts said this advisory was issued as a precaution and not because of an observed large wave.

Global Seismic Context

The Kamchatka Peninsula and Aleutian Islands are among the most seismically active areas in the world. They sit along the boundary where the Pacific Plate meets the North American Plate.

This zone has a long history of generating earthquakes above magnitude 7.0. Some have led to destructive tsunamis across the Pacific. This is why U.S. and Russian authorities keep strict watch on the area.

Tsunami advisory issued after 7.8M earthquake serves as a reminder of the need for rapid alerts and strong monitoring systems. Even when no major wave occurs, the alerts help protect coastal populations and keep shipping safe.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Where did the 7.8 earthquake strike?

The quake struck off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia, in the Pacific Ocean. It was recorded on Thursday afternoon, local U.S. Pacific time.

Q2: What areas are under tsunami advisory?

The tsunami advisory was issued for Amchitka Pass in Alaska. No advisory was given for California, Oregon, or Washington.

Q3: What does a tsunami advisory mean?

A tsunami advisory means small waves or strong currents may occur. It does not signal a large destructive tsunami.

Q4: Has there been any reported damage?

No damage has been reported so far. Authorities are monitoring for sea level changes and currents near the Aleutians.

Q5: Why is Kamchatka prone to big quakes?

Kamchatka sits on the Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates meet. This region often produces large earthquakes and potential tsunamis.