Residents of Hawaii's Big Island were put on high alert after a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck near Taiwan, triggering fears of a potential tsunami. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center swiftly issued an advisory, cautioning coastal communities to prepare for possible hazardous waves.
While the advisory was later downgraded, officials urged the public to remain cautious, particularly near shorelines. "We are closely monitoring the situation," a spokesperson for the center stated. "Even small changes in sea level can be dangerous."
The earthquake, which hit Taiwan's eastern coast early Wednesday, sent tremors across the region. Hawaii, located thousands of miles away, was included in the initial warning due to its vulnerability to Pacific-wide tsunamis.
Precautionary Measures in Place
Local authorities in Hawaii advised residents to:
- Avoid beaches and low-lying coastal areas
- Stay tuned to emergency broadcasts
- Follow evacuation instructions if necessary
Thankfully, no significant wave activity was reported, and the advisory was lifted after a few hours. However, the incident served as a stark reminder of Hawaii's exposure to natural disasters.
