A tsunami threat alert has been issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center following a magnitude 8.7 earthquake off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia. Warnings are in effect for all Pacific Islands.
The U.S. Embassy in Apia is advising U.S. citizens to stay out of the water and away from beaches and waterways, including refraining from swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating. The embassy also recommends following instructions from local officials, which may include closing beaches, evacuating low ground areas, harbors and marinas, or moving ships to deeper water if safe to do so.
“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 embassy stated.
Citizens are encouraged to stay updated through official sources such as Samoa Meteorological Service, NOAA Weather Radio, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, and local news outlets. According to guidance provided by the embassy, tsunami advisories may be updated or changed as new information becomes available.
U.S. citizens needing assistance can contact American Citizens Services at ApiaConsular@state.gov or call +685 21631, 22696, 21436 or 21452 (press 0 for operator), or extension 2222 to leave a message. Additional support is available through State Department – Consular Affairs at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444.
Travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates at https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step.
Further contact details for U.S. Embassy Apia can be found at https://ws.usembassy.gov/contact/.