A magnitude 8.7 earthquake struck off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia, prompting the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center to issue a tsunami threat alert for all Pacific Islands.
U.S. citizens in affected areas have been urged by the U.S. Consulate General in Auckland to take several safety precautions. "Stay out of the water and away from beaches and waterways, including refraining from activities like swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating," the consulate advised. It further instructed: "Follow 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."
The statement continued: "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 consulate also recommended that people "stay updated through official sources such as New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency, NOAA Weather Radio, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, and local news."
Officials indicated that tsunami advisories could be revised as new information becomes available.
Contact details for emergency services were provided by the consulate. For after-hours emergencies in New Zealand, individuals can call +64 4 462 6000. U.S. State Department – Consular Affairs can be reached at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444.
U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad were encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step to receive timely security updates from local embassies and consulates.
Further information about contacting the U.S. Embassy & Consulate In New Zealand is available at https://nz.usembassy.gov/contact/.