Tsunami Waves Hit U.S. After 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake in Russia’s Far East Northern California Coastline Under Tsunami Warning; Hawaii Residents Sleep in Cars Amid Evacuation

 A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck Russia’s far eastern region early Wednesday, triggering tsunami waves that reached parts of the U.S. West Coast. As of Wednesday morning, a tsunami warning—the highest level alert—remains in effect for a 40-mile stretch of Northern California’s coastline, extending from just south of Klamath to the Oregon border, including Crescent City, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

According to CNN reporters, This region is particularly vulnerable due to its underwater topography (bathymetry), which can intensify tsunami impacts. Narrow underwater valleys, much like desert canyons, can funnel water into stronger, more destructive waves.

The NWS confirmed that Crescent City has already recorded a 3.6-foot tsunami wave and warned residents and visitors to continue avoiding beaches and harbors, as tsunami activity is expected to persist.

Panic and Preparedness in Hawaii: Maui Residents and Tourists Sleep in Cars During Tsunami Alert

As warnings spread across the Pacific, Maui, Hawaii witnessed overnight evacuations. Residents and tourists scrambled to reach higher ground, many ending up sleeping in their vehicles overnight.

Debra Daniels, a Maui resident vacationing at a resort on Napili Bay Beach, told CNN she had initially planned to drive home to Kula, a 45-minute trip. But due to heavy traffic and panic-driven congestion, travel time more than doubled.

“At that moment, there was borderline evacuation panic—everyone was trying to leave at once, and there’s only one main road across the island,” she explained.

Unable to reach home, Daniels and her boyfriend decided to head uphill to West Maui, turning into a mountain neighborhood, where they joined dozens of others parked along the streets.

“It almost felt like waiting for fireworks on the Fourth of July,” she said. “People were anxious but generally in good spirits.”

Videos from the area captured sunset views of residents watching the ocean, scanning the horizon for any sign of waves. Daniels noted that many were still in their cars waiting or sleeping when she left the area.