sunami with two million told to evacuate w

Japan has ordered the evacuation of two million people as it braces for a massive 15-foot tsunami triggered by a powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake. The quake, one of the strongest ever recorded, struck near the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia.

Tsunami waves already hit parts of Japan and Russia on Tuesday evening, with Hawaii expected to be next. Sirens have been sounding across the islands, urging residents to either evacuate or move to the fourth floor or higher in buildings.

Officials warn that waves up to 10 feet above normal tide could hit coastal towns in minutes. U.S. states including Guam, California, Oregon, and Washington are under various tsunami alerts, with waves expected to continue hitting through the night.

The earthquake occurred around 7:24 p.m. EST and is the most powerful since the 2011 Japan quake that left nearly 20,000 people dead or missing. In Russia, buildings were destroyed and some people injured, including one woman who jumped from a window.

In Hawaii, 66-year-old British tourist Sharon shared her fear as she sheltered in a Waikiki hotel with her family. They were told not to evacuate but to stay on higher floors. She described the loud alarm and confusion, saying they still feel unsafe.

Japan’s Meteorological Agency warned that the tsunami danger could persist for another day. Authorities continue urging people to remain in safe zones and avoid returning to coastal areas.

Meanwhile, MarineTraffic reported that 91 vessels, including fishing boats and Coast Guard ships, left Honolulu Harbor, heading for deeper waters for safety. Waves have now reached Washington state as well.