Tsunami waves hit U.S. West Coast following massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake

Tsunami waves struck the U.S. West Coast early this morning after one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded.

(NBC) – Tsunami waves struck the U.S. West Coast early this morning after one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded — an 8.8-magnitude quake off Russia’s coast — sent shockwaves across the Pacific.

The earthquake caused intense shaking that impacted cliffs, homes, and even hospitals, with some operations interrupted by the tremors. The quake triggered small tsunami waves and evacuation orders in Japan, where some residents sought refuge on rooftops.

Now, the effects are being felt across parts of the United States. On the West Coast, residents braced for impact as piers closed in California amid tsunami advisories. Meanwhile, in Hawaii, water surged into buildings after overnight waves and strong winds battered the islands. Tsunami advisories and evacuation warnings spread rapidly throughout Hawaii, leading to diverted flights and stranded passengers at airports. Residents sheltered indoors or hurried to higher ground, causing massive traffic jams.

Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green urged caution during a press briefing at 2:20 a.m. EST. “Just be a little safe for a little longer. Keep our fingers crossed that we don’t suffer a big tsunami,” he said.

Madison Wade, a reporter for NBC’s Seattle affiliate, arrived in Waikiki just hours before the warnings were issued. She described the hotel’s evacuation instructions: “They went over the intercom and told all of us to evacuate to higher ground, which means the fourth floor or above, and stay in our rooms. So they don’t want anyone in the lobby right now.”

Experts cautioned against letting down guard too soon. Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones warned, “When you’ve got a big one, the biggest wave can come later.”