As tsunami waves are observed, state officials and citizens prepare for potential danger while reflecting on past natural disasters.
Hawaii Races to Safety as Tsunami Warning Triggers Evacuations
Hawaii Races to Safety as Tsunami Warning Triggers Evacuations
Residents evacuate coastal areas of Hawaii following tsunami warnings from a powerful earthquake in the Pacific.
Many residents of Hawaii are urgently evacuating coastal areas in response to a tsunami warning issued after a significant earthquake near Russia. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has reported that waves several feet high are already being recorded in areas such as Maui, Oahu, and the main island of Hawaii, where the capital, Honolulu, is located.
Hawaii's Governor Josh Green has advised those in low-lying regions to move to higher ground and remain calm, noting that he has yet to see any “wave of consequence” striking the islands. Despite the governor’s cautious optimism, urgency permeates as crowds of evacuating residents are hitting the roads.
On Maui – previously rocked by devastating wildfires two years ago – residents are particularly vigilant. Many have turned their attention to safety, abandoning home comforts to seek refuge in elevated areas. Authorities on the mainland US West Coast, including California and Alaska, are also taking precautionary measures, albeit under lesser tsunami advisories.
Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones has stated that while damage to harbors and coastal properties in Hawaii could occur, a catastrophic loss of life is unlikely. The anticipated tallest waves in Hawaii may reach several feet, significantly less than the 42-foot tsunami recorded during the 2011 disaster in Japan.
David Dorn, a long-time resident of Kihei on Maui, reflects on past tsunami warnings but approaches this incident with heightened concern. He and his wife have evacuated to higher ground, prioritizing safety over belongings. "Traffic’s always a problem, and it’s getting worse," he shared, acknowledging the chaos of the moment.
Others, like Roger Pleasanton, noted the intensity of the congested roads as they sought to leave. "It's like New York City right now," he remarked, contemplating whether to forgo grocery shopping in favor of finding safety.
As evacuations continue, emergency shelters are being opened, and water services are being shut down to avoid damage. For lifelong resident Felicia Johnson, memories of prior evacuations haunt the present moment. Describing the unsettling ebb and flow of the ocean, she reflects on her fears. "It's eerily weird," she stated as she packed her truck.
With these warnings resonating with past experiences, Hawaii's residents face the uncertain tide ahead while remaining vigilant and prepared as they navigate the challenges posed by natural disasters.
Hawaii's Governor Josh Green has advised those in low-lying regions to move to higher ground and remain calm, noting that he has yet to see any “wave of consequence” striking the islands. Despite the governor’s cautious optimism, urgency permeates as crowds of evacuating residents are hitting the roads.
On Maui – previously rocked by devastating wildfires two years ago – residents are particularly vigilant. Many have turned their attention to safety, abandoning home comforts to seek refuge in elevated areas. Authorities on the mainland US West Coast, including California and Alaska, are also taking precautionary measures, albeit under lesser tsunami advisories.
Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones has stated that while damage to harbors and coastal properties in Hawaii could occur, a catastrophic loss of life is unlikely. The anticipated tallest waves in Hawaii may reach several feet, significantly less than the 42-foot tsunami recorded during the 2011 disaster in Japan.
David Dorn, a long-time resident of Kihei on Maui, reflects on past tsunami warnings but approaches this incident with heightened concern. He and his wife have evacuated to higher ground, prioritizing safety over belongings. "Traffic’s always a problem, and it’s getting worse," he shared, acknowledging the chaos of the moment.
Others, like Roger Pleasanton, noted the intensity of the congested roads as they sought to leave. "It's like New York City right now," he remarked, contemplating whether to forgo grocery shopping in favor of finding safety.
As evacuations continue, emergency shelters are being opened, and water services are being shut down to avoid damage. For lifelong resident Felicia Johnson, memories of prior evacuations haunt the present moment. Describing the unsettling ebb and flow of the ocean, she reflects on her fears. "It's eerily weird," she stated as she packed her truck.
With these warnings resonating with past experiences, Hawaii's residents face the uncertain tide ahead while remaining vigilant and prepared as they navigate the challenges posed by natural disasters.
