Tsunami advisory issued for coastal Washington, West Coast after magnitude 8.7 earthquake near Russia

A tsunami advisory has been issued for the outer coast of Washington following an 8. 7-magnitude earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. The National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed that strong waves and dangerous currents could pose risks to coastal areas. The advisory was upgraded from a tsunami watch and forecasts the first waves to reach Washington around 11:30 p. m.

and Bellingham at 1:10 a. m. Expected tsunami heights are forecasted to be 1. 4 feet or less, which could still create hazardous conditions. Residents are advised to stay out of the water and heed local officials' instructions.

Similar advisories have been issued along the West Coast, affecting areas from the Washington/Oregon border to the Columbia River estuary coast. Local officials are monitoring the situation closely to ensure public safety.