Striking footage from Russia’s remote Antsiferov Island shows dozens of Steller sea lions scrambling to escape as tsunami waves crash into the coast, moments after one of the world’s strongest earthquakes struck Russia’s Far East early Wednesday.The 8.8-magnitude quake was centred off the Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering tsunami warnings across the Pacific, including Japan, Hawaii, Oregon, and parts of Canada.Authorities in several countries urged residents to avoid shorelines, warning that the risk of powerful waves could last more than a day.The dramatic footage of sea lions scrambling to higher ground quickly went viral on social media, offering a powerful reminder of nature’s force—and how instinctively animals respond to danger.Furthermore, BNO News reported that four whales washed ashore on the coast of Japan following the powerful tsunami triggered by the earthquake.Waves up to 4 metres were reported in Kamchatka, while smaller tsunamis reached Japan, Alaska and parts of the US West Coast. In Japan’s Hokkaido, waves of 60 centimetres were recorded, prompting evacuations in coastal towns.
In Hawaii, roads were jammed as residents fled inland. Governor Josh Green said waves at Midway Atoll reached 6 feet from peak to trough. “This is a longitudinal wave with great force driving through the shoreline and into land,” he said. Rescue helicopters and high-water vehicles were placed on standby.Despite the strength of the quake, little damage has been reported. Russian officials said a few injuries occurred, and the port of Severokurilsk saw flooding and fishing boats washed away. Power checks were underway.A few kayakers were seen escaping, while some continued their activities even as authorities urged them to get out of the water, with the tsunami waves strengthening the currents.
