US citizens under threat of huge tsunami as sixth-strongest earthquake rocks the planet
Millions of US citizens are under threat of a huge tsunami after a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Russia.
BBC News reports that the first waves triggered by the seismic earthquake have reached Hawaii, with a 4ft (1.2m) wave recorded off Oahu.
Residents in Hawaii had already been told to evacuate from the coastal areas as the risk became apparent following the earthquake in the far east of Russia.
How powerful is the earthquake and where did it strike?
The sixth-biggest earthquake on record hit Russia overnight as a kindergarten in Petropavlovsk collapsed following the 8.8 magnitude quake.
Several were left injured as a result of the earthquake, while tsunami waves hit the coastal town of Severo-Kurilsk.
Oleg Melnikov, a regional health minister, told the TASS state news agency: “Unfortunately, there are some people injured during the seismic event. Some were hurt while running outside, and one patient jumped out of a window. A woman was also injured inside the new airport terminal.
“All patients are currently in satisfactory condition, and no serious injuries have been reported so far.”
Citizens have been leaving Hawaii in masses (EUGENE TANNER/AFP via Getty Images)
What is the tsunami warning and who is affected in the US?
The California and Oregon border has now been placed under a tsunami warning, which basically means ‘take action’, according to the US National Weather Service.
Meanwhile, advisories continued to be issued for the West Coast of the US, as officials continue to monitor the threat.
President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to issue a warning to millions of Americans regarding the ongoing risk of a tsunami.
He penned: “Due to a massive earthquake that occurred in the Pacific Ocean, a Tsunami Warning is in effect for those living in Hawaii. A Tsunami Watch is in effect for Alaska and the Pacific Coast of the United States. Japan is also in the way. Please visit tsunami.gov/ for the latest information. STAY STRONG AND STAY SAFE!”