Powerful 7.8 Earthquake Strikes Russia’s Kamchatka, Tsunami Warnings Issued
A powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula in the Far East on Friday, which the US Geological Survey (USGS) described as an aftershock from the massive 8.8 quake recorded in July.
The strong tremor triggered a series of tsunami warnings across the region, though officials confirmed there were no immediate reports of major damage. Waves measuring 30 to 62 centimeters (1 to 2 feet) were observed along parts of the coastline.
Details of the Earthquake
According to the USGS, the quake was caused by shallow reverse faulting at a depth of just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), making it particularly intense. Several aftershocks followed, the strongest reaching magnitude 5.8.
Russia’s Emergencies Ministry measured the quake slightly lower at 7.2, but stressed that emergency services were placed on full alert.
Kamchatka’s Governor, Vladimir Solodov, confirmed that inspections of schools, hospitals, and residential buildings were launched immediately.
“This morning once again tested the resilience of Kamchatka residents,” Solodov shared on Telegram.
Tsunami Warnings and Regional Impact
A tsunami warning was issued for the eastern coastline of Kamchatka, which extends into both the Bering Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Authorities also issued warnings for parts of the Kuril Islands, located north of Japan.
In the United States, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center briefly issued an advisory for parts of Alaska, though it was later lifted after the threat subsided.
Scenes from the Ground
Residents captured dramatic footage showing shaking light fixtures, rattling furniture, and rocking vehicles with car alarms blaring. Videos quickly spread on social media, highlighting the quake’s strength but also showing relief that no catastrophic damage followed.
Kamchatka’s High Seismic Activity
The Kamchatka Peninsula is one of the world’s most seismically active regions. Over the past week alone, at least two earthquakes stronger than magnitude 7.0 have been recorded there.
The July 8.8 earthquake, the largest in recent years, generated a tsunami that flooded a local seaport town and prompted tsunami warnings across the Pacific. Scientists working on nearby volcanoes even managed to capture footage of the ground shaking during that event.