A powerful magnitude-7.2 earthquake struck off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula early Sunday, triggering tsunami warnings across the Pacific region. The tremor occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers near Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, followed by multiple aftershocks including a magnitude-6.6 quake, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC).
The U.S. Geological Survey issued an immediate tsunami alert, warning of potentially hazardous waves within 300 kilometers of the epicenter. While initial reports indicate no immediate damage, authorities are urging coastal communities to remain vigilant.
Kamchatka's eastern coast, part of the seismically active 'Ring of Fire,' experiences frequent earthquakes. This latest event highlights ongoing geological risks in Pacific coastal regions critical to global shipping routes and fisheries.
Scientists emphasize that while tsunami risks diminish with distance, automated alert systems remain crucial for coastal safety. The incident follows increased seismic activity observed in the Kuril-Kamchatka trench this year.
