Current Situation & Timing The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has issued a tsunami warning for the entire state of Hawaii following a powerful magnitude 8.8 (sometimes reported 8.7) earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on July 29, 2025 . The first tsunami wave is forecast to reach Hawaii at approximately 7:17 p.m. HST (Hawaii Standard Time) on July 29 . Authorities have declared a state of emergency. Evacuation orders are in effect for low-lying and coastal areas across Hawaiian islands. The public has been advised to move to higher ground—or at least above the fourth floor of buildings—and to stay clear of beaches, harbors, and waterfronts until the threat has passed . 📝 Essay: The Current Tsunami Threat to Hawaii 1. Earthquake Origins and Tsunami Generation On July 29, 2025, at about 12:25 p.m. local Pacific time, a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck beneath the Pacific Ocean near the eastern coast of Kamchatka, Russia, at a shallow depth of approximately 11–12 miles . Such a powerful and shallow megathrust quake is among the most energetic seismic events globally—on par with the 2011 Japan quake—and is well-known for its tsunami-generating potential . 2. Hawaii’s Vulnerability and At-Risk Area Hawaii is extremely vulnerable to distant tsunamis due to its exposed Pacific location and the way waves wrap around island coastlines. Every shoreline—from Oahu to Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island—is considered at risk, with the first wave expected by 7:17 p.m. HST on July 29 . Authorities have emphasized that tsunami waves arrive in sequences, and the first may not be the largest. The warnings point to dangerous currents, prolonged flooding, and unpredictable wave heights, especially near harbors or during high tides . 3. Forecasted Wave Activity and Impacts The tsunami is forecast to bring wave heights between 1 and 3 meters (3–10 feet) above tide levels for Hawaii and Japan; certain areas—such as parts of Russia and Ecuador—could see waves over 3 meters . Within Hawaii, these waves are powerful enough to cause coastal flooding, damage to boats, docks, and shoreline infrastructure. Although not all areas will be submerged, currents and surges pose a serious hazard. Reports are ongoing that some Pacific regions have already seen waves up to four meters . 4. Emergency Response and Public Guidance Local officials have strongly urged residents to evacuate all low‑lying coastal areas and to stay off beaches, marinas, and waterfront zones. Emergency sirens are sounding statewide, and messages are being sent via radio, social media, and mobile alerts . The current warnings reflect those improvements in preparedness and response. ⸻ ✅ Recommended Actions Right Now • Evacuate: Leave beaches, waterfronts, and all low‑lying coastal areas immediately. Move to elevation or at least the fourth floor of a building if evacuation routes are impeded. • Stay informed: Monitor official channels like NOAA’s Tsunami Warning Center, local emergency management offices, and civil-defense alerts for updates. • Avoid hazards: Do not go near the water—even if the beach appears calm. Boats, docks, and piers may be damaged or unstable. • Remain alert: The tsunami threat may last many hours. Officials will notify when it’s safe to return; do not assume danger has passed after the first wave. ⸻ In Summary • A significant tsunami warning is now in effect for all of Hawaii, following a magnitude 8.8 earthquake off Kamchatka on July 29, 2025. • The first wave is predicted to arrive in Hawaii around 7:17 p.m. HST, with potential for multiple waves and strong currents lasting for hours. • Evacuations are under way, and residents must stay at higher elevation and avoid all coastal areas. • Ongoing alerts and protective actions will determine when it’s clear to return. - @diego.madrid09