A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 struck Russia's Far East early today, prompting urgent tsunami warnings for coastal areas along the Pacific.
The seismic event, recorded near the Kuril Islands, sent shockwaves across the region, raising fears of potential destruction. Authorities swiftly issued evacuation orders for residents in vulnerable zones.
Immediate Response and Warnings
Russia's emergency services confirmed the quake's epicentre was located at a depth of 56km (35 miles), with tremors felt across nearby settlements. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre (PTWC) immediately alerted nations bordering the ocean, though no major waves have yet been reported.
"Residents in coastal areas must move to higher ground immediately," warned local officials, emphasising the unpredictable nature of aftershocks.
Regional Impact and Preparedness
Japan and other neighbouring countries remain on high alert, with disaster response teams mobilised. While initial assessments suggest limited structural damage, experts caution that secondary effects, including landslides, could follow.
"Earthquakes of this scale often trigger multiple hazards," noted a seismologist from the Russian Academy of Sciences. "Preparedness saves lives."
Further updates are expected as monitoring continues.
