A strong 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula early Saturday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The earthquake occurred about 111 kilometers east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky at a depth of 39 kilometers. Experts said it was the most powerful aftershock following the devastating 8.8-magnitude earthquake that shook the region on July 29.
No tsunami warning issued
Authorities confirmed that no tsunami warning was in place after the latest earthquake. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially flagged a possible risk but later withdrew the alert. Similarly, Japan’s Meteorological Agency confirmed that no tsunami advisory had been issued for Japanese coastal areas.
Aftermath of July’s deadly quake
The earlier July 29 earthquake was among the strongest in modern history. It triggered tsunami waves that hit Russia’s Rybachiy naval base, where the Pacific Fleet’s nuclear submarines are stationed. Satellite images later suggested visible damage at the site.
That quake also produced waves up to four meters high, injured several people, and forced evacuations along Japan’s east coast, still haunted by memories of the 2011 disaster.
Region facing repeated tremors
Kamchatka has experienced several strong tremors this summer, with at least five major earthquakes reported in July alone. The latest 7.4-magnitude aftershock highlights the region’s continuing seismic instability.
So far, no casualties or property damage have been reported from the most recent earthquake. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely as residents remain on alert for possible aftershocks.
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