A magnitude 8.0 earthquake has occurred off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia, prompting a tsunami threat for parts of the South Pacific. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a warning that includes potential coastal flooding and strong currents in areas such as Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Nauru, Kiribati, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and Wallis and Futuna.
Authorities have advised residents and visitors in these regions to stay out of the water and away from beaches and waterways. This includes avoiding activities like swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating. Local officials may order beach closures or evacuations from low-lying areas, harbors, and marinas. Ships may be instructed to move to deeper water if it is safe.
"If you are in the affected areas, move to higher ground and keep away from coasts and river mouths which could overflow. Continue to follow any evacuation orders by local government until all advisories are lifted," the U.S. government stated.
People are encouraged to stay informed through official sources such as NOAA Weather updates or local news outlets. Tsunami threats may change as new information becomes available; warnings can be updated or canceled accordingly.
The U.S. government also recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which helps citizens receive security messages and assists authorities in locating them during emergencies.