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Seismic activity off the Eastern coast of Russia triggers tsunami warning

Earthquake of magnitude 7.8 hits at Russia's Kamchatka peninsula, causing buildings to shake and triggering a tsunami alert that was subsequently cancelled. Footage uploaded to Russian social media platforms displayed vibrating household items and lights within homes.

East Russia experiences strong earthquake, tsunami warning announced
East Russia experiences strong earthquake, tsunami warning announced

Seismic activity off the Eastern coast of Russia triggers tsunami warning

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 hit off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka peninsula on September 19, according to the US Geological Survey. The epicentre of the quake was located 128km east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a coastal city on the peninsula.

The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10km, causing tremors that were felt across the region. Videos on Russian social media show furniture shaking and cars rocking due to the earthquake.

The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami warning for possible hazardous waves along nearby coastlines following the earthquake. However, later reports indicated that the threat had passed.

The local branch of Russia's state geophysical service reported a lower magnitude of 7.4 for the earthquake. Despite the initial concerns, Vladimir Solodov, the Governor of the Kamchatka Territory, reported on Telegram that there are currently no reports of damage.

Solodov also urged the residents to remain calm and asked them to stay updated on the situation. The Kamchatka peninsula, located on the Ring of Fire, a tectonic belt surrounding most of the Pacific Ocean, is a hotspot for seismic activity.

This latest earthquake comes just months after an 8.8-magnitude mega-quake occurred off the coast of the Kamchatka peninsula in July. That earthquake triggered a tsunami and sparked tsunami warnings around the Pacific. However, no current reports of tsunami warnings have been made following the September 19 earthquake.

The peninsula has been tested by another earthquake, but the residents seem to be holding up well. Solodov's statement on Telegram reassured the residents, stating that they should remain calm and stay informed.

At least five aftershocks were reported following the earthquake, but no significant damage has been reported as of yet. The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center continues to monitor the situation closely.

The Kamchatka peninsula, with its volatile geological history, remains a region that requires constant vigilance and preparedness. The recent earthquake serves as a reminder of the potential dangers and the need for continuous monitoring and preparedness.

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