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Hawaiians cram roads away from coasts as tsunami waves arrive

July 30, 2025

Following a powerful earthquake near Russia, many Hawaiian residents evacuated coastal areas as tsunami waves several feet high hit the islands of Maui, Oahu, and Hawaii. Officials downgraded the initial tsunami warning to an advisory but cautioned that flooding and dangerous currents could persist for hours or days after the initial waves. While Governor Josh Green expressed optimism about not seeing a "wave of consequence," residents took precautions seriously, with traffic congestion reported as people moved to higher ground.

Who is affected

  • Hawaiian residents in coastal and low-lying areas
  • Residents of Maui, Oahu, and Hawaii islands
  • People in coastal areas of California and Alaska
  • Residents in parts of British Columbia, Canada
  • Waterfront property owners and harbor facilities
  • Beachgoers and swimmers across affected regions

What action is being taken

  • Hawaiian residents are evacuating coastal areas and moving to higher ground
  • Officials are issuing and updating tsunami warnings and advisories
  • Shelters are being opened in Maui
  • Water facilities in Maui have been shut off to protect from possible damage
  • Emergency management authorities are warning people to remain outside coastal evacuation zones until an all-clear is given
  • The National Weather Service is monitoring wave heights and issuing guidance

Why it matters

  • Tsunami waves pose immediate danger to people in coastal areas through flooding and strong currents
  • The risk of powerful currents can continue for several hours or days after initial waves
  • Infrastructure damage is possible to harbors and waterfront properties
  • The event is particularly significant for Maui residents who are still recovering from devastating wildfires two years ago
  • The earthquake that triggered the tsunami is one of the most powerful of modern times, ranking among only five stronger earthquakes since modern seismography began in 1900

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC