Traffic Chokes Hawaii As Locals Flee To Higher Ground Amid Tsunami Fears | Video

Last Updated:July 30, 2025, 10:32 IST

The earthquake, which struck the Kamchatka region in Russia, has raised serious concerns about potential tsunami waves traveling across the Pacific Ocean.

The situation remains fluid as emergency teams across the Pacific Rim remain on high alert. (Pics: Social Media)

Following the massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia’s remote Kamchatka Peninsula, tsunami warnings have been issued across the Pacific, triggering panic and urgent evacuation efforts in several regions, including Hawaii. On Oahu Island, residents rushed to reach higher ground, causing widespread traffic gridlock.

In response, the US military opened Kolekole Pass, from Lualualei Naval Road to Lyman Road, for civilian use. The route is now serving as an emergency evacuation path. Officials have urged drivers to use extreme caution and follow instructions from military and emergency personnel. The pass will remain open until the all-clear is issued.

The undersea earthquake, which struck the Kamchatka region—one of Russia’s most seismically active zones — has raised serious concerns about potential tsunami waves traveling across the Pacific Ocean. Authorities have warned that waves could reach between one and three meters in height in vulnerable coastal areas, including Alaska and Hawaii.

In Japan, the government has also issued tsunami alerts, urging residents in coastal and riverside areas to evacuate immediately. “Tsunami waves are expected to hit repeatedly. Do not leave safe ground until the warning is lifted," officials said, as per reports.

The situation remains fluid as emergency teams across the Pacific Rim remain on high alert, monitoring wave activity and preparing for further response if needed. Residents in all affected regions have been advised to stay tuned to official advisories and avoid low-lying coastal zones.

Tsunami Warning For Hawaii, Vessels Ordered To Evacuate

The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre has issued a Tsunami Warning for the State of Hawaii, urging immediate action to safeguard lives and property. The first wave is expected to arrive at 7:17pm HST on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, and all coastlines in Hawaii are at risk. The tsunami’s impact may last for several hours across the island chain.

In response, the US. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) Honolulu has ordered the evacuation of all ocean-going commercial vessels and barges from Hawaii’s commercial harbours. Incoming vessel traffic is now suspended, and all harbours have been closed. Vessels in transit near Hawaii must remain offshore until conditions are deemed safe.

Any vessel seeking to remain in port must request a waiver from the COTP by phone or by emailing SecHoneMTSRU@uscg.mil. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge all maritime operators and residents to follow official instructions closely.

The COTP Honolulu will monitor the status of the ports and reopen each port on a case-by-case basis after hazardous conditions have subsided. Vessels should remain at sea until receiving confirmation that the ports are reopened by the COTP.

Port status information and updates will be provided via channel 16 VHF FM. Vessels and facilities should report any dangerous situations to the Sector Honolulu Command Center at (808) 842-2600 immediately.

News world Traffic Chokes Hawaii As Locals Flee To Higher Ground Amid Tsunami Fears | Video

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