Early Wednesday, one of the strongest earthquakes ever measured—a magnitude 8.8—struck off Russia’s Far East coast, setting off tsunami warnings and large evacuations all around the Pacific Rim.
Although no deaths have been reported, authorities verified some minor injuries. Though emergency teams remain on alert, initial evaluations show little structural damage.
Millions of people in Russia, Japan, and the United States were told to leave coastal and low-lying areas. With authorities stating the worst is probably over, the immediate danger has passed in those areas.
Fresh tsunami warnings have been issued for sections of the Pacific coast of South America, though, which has caused evacuations in Chile and Colombia. Officials there are advocating continued caution as wave action is closely monitored.
According to seismologists, the earthquake began at a considerable depth offshore, perhaps reducing the degree of damage. Agencies tracking for aftershocks and possible tsunami activity keep watchful.
