Every area on tsunami alert as sixth-strongest earthquake hits the planet
Residents of many countries have been warned to prepare for the threat of a tsunami in the wake of a massive earthquake that struck off the coast of Russia.
An earthquake measuring 8.8 magnitude was recorded off the coast of Russia on Wednesday (30 July), with it being believed to be the sixth-strongest ever recorded, leading to fears of a tsunami hitting multiple countries.
According to the BBC, 4ft (1.2m) waves have already reached Hawaii after being triggered by the earthquake.
Evacuations in coastal areas have already been ordered in many locations in an attempt to minimise loss of life and potential damage.
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The earthquake is the strongest on record since 2011's 9.0 magnitude earthquake hit northeast Japan, with the following tsunami leaving devastation behind.
But which areas are at risk today? Here's everything we know...
Everything we know about the earthquake in Russia and tsunami warnings
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was recorded around 74 miles (119 kilometers) southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky city, at a depth of 20.7 kilometers.
This was followed by two powerful aftershocks, measuring at 6.3 and 6.9 magnitudes in the hour after the first 8.8 quake.
Smaller shocks measuring around 5 have also been recorded.
The waves that have been recorded so far have measured between four and five feet high, and the governor of Hawaii has warned residents that the tsunami 'will wrap around the islands'.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, large waves started to build in the early evening local time in Kahului.
All flights in and out of Maui airport were cancelled; however, the warning has since been downgraded from a tsunami to large waves, and people who have evacuated have been told they can return home.
The original forecast for Japan was for waves of almost 3m, but the measured ones have been much smaller so far, but that could still change.
Where in the world is the tsunami expected to hit?
More than 1.9 million people in Japan have been told to evacuate as large waves have already begun to hit the northern and eastern coasts.
Tsunami warnings and advisories have also come into effect for California and the rest of the US West Coast. The highest level of tsunami alert extends down the California coast from Cape Mendocino to the Oregon border.
In addition to Japan and the US, places such as Russia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Chile, Peru and Ecuador have also issued warnings.
Residents of the Galapagos Islands have been warned of a 1.4m (4.6 feet) wave expected by 9 am local time.
The Integrated Tsunami Alert System of Mexico and Central America's alert is also extensive.
It covers the whole area from Ensenada to Panama, and warnings have also been issued for Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa.
The US embassy has issued warnings this morning to Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu.
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social: "Due to a massive earthquake that occurred in the Pacific Ocean, a Tsunami Warning is in effect for those living in Hawaii. A Tsunami Watch is in effect for Alaska and the Pacific Coast of the United States. Japan is also in the way.
"Please visit tsunami.gov/ for the latest information. STAY STRONG AND STAY SAFE!"
How to stay safe during a tsunami
Residents are being urged to move away from coastal and low-lying areas and to head to higher ground.
New Zealand's emergency management agency warned residents in coastal areas: “People in or near the sea in the following areas should move out of the water, off beaches and shore areas and away from harbours, marinas, rivers and estuaries.”
People on boats, including those in marinas, have been told to move onto the shore.
Many warnings are being given advising not to head to the coast to watch for any waves coming in or to record footage for social media.
People are advised to move to land at least 100ft above sea level, and at least a mile inland away from the coast.
According to the National Weather Service, noticeable signs ahead of a tsunami include a loud roaring sound from the ocean, accompanied by a sudden rise or fall of water levels.
If the water suddenly retreats away from the shore, this can also be a warning that a tsunami is about to happen.
Residents are advised to listen to the radio or check their mobile devices for the most up-to-date information and warnings.
Jen Thomas