Updated at 4:07 a.m., Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Tsunami advisory upgraded to watch for Hawai'i
Advertiser Staff
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has issued a tsunami watch at 2:21 a.m. for the state of Hawai'i following an 8.1 magnitude earthquake off the Kuril Islands.The center upgraded its initial advisory based on the increased magnitude of the earthquake, which hit 6.7 miles north and 153.5 east of the Kuril Islands.
Japan and Russia are under a tsunami warning. A 6.5-foot tsunami was expected to hit Japan.
Based on all available data, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said a tsunami may have been generated that could be destructive on coastal areas even far from the epicenter. An investigation is underway to determine if there is a threat to Hawai'i.
If tsunami waves impact Hawai'i, the estimated earliest arrival is 7:20 a.m.
Updates will continue on The Advertiser's web site as conditions warrant.
