Powerful Earthquake Strikes Russia’s Kamchatka, Triggers Tsunami Warnings
September 19, 2025 – A powerful earthquake shook Russia’s far eastern Kamchatka region on Friday morning, prompting tsunami advisories across the Pacific, though no damage has been reported so far.
Earthquake Details
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake registered a magnitude of 7.8 at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). Several strong aftershocks followed, with magnitudes reaching 5.8.
Russia’s Emergencies Ministry initially reported the earthquake at 7.2 magnitude, while authorities confirmed that all emergency services were on high alert.
Tsunami Warnings Issued
Governor Vladimir Solodov said tsunami waves of 0.5 to 1.5 meters (1.6 to 4.9 feet) could strike parts of the Kamchatka coastline and urged residents to avoid coastal areas.
“This morning is once again testing the resilience of Kamchatka residents,” the governor wrote on Telegram. “Inspections of schools, hospitals, and residential buildings began immediately after the quake.”
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The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre (PTWC) in Hawaii issued a tsunami advisory for Alaska, warning of strong currents.
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Russia also extended tsunami warnings to the Kuril Islands, located north of Japan.
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Forecast models suggested waves could reach up to 3 meters (nearly 10 feet) in some parts of Kamchatka.
Regional Context
Kamchatka lies in one of the world’s most seismically active zones, where earthquakes and volcanic activity are common. In fact, at least two quakes above magnitude 7 have struck the region in the past week alone.
Current Status
So far, no casualties or structural damage have been reported, but residents remain on alert as aftershocks and rising sea levels are closely monitored. Emergency teams continue to patrol vulnerable areas, ensuring public safety.
