Hawaii Faces Tsunami Threat; Waves Up to 10 Feet Expected

URGENT UPDATE: Hawaii is on high alert as tsunami waves up to 10 feet are expected to hit the islands following a significant earthquake. Governor Josh Green has urged residents to evacuate tsunami danger zones immediately, with dangerous waves anticipated to start impacting the coastline by 7:10 p.m. HST (10:10 p.m. PST).

During a press conference at the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency headquarters, Governor Green emphasized the potential for significant damage along the coastlines. “We should be safe, and therefore not sorry,” he warned as officials prepared for the incoming threat.

Ocean activity readings indicate that tsunami waves are imminent, but their exact size will not be confirmed until activity passes Midway at approximately 5:30 p.m. HST. Green stated, “God willing, these waves will not hurt us. But you have to assume, assume, they will be life threatening.”

City officials are stressing the urgency of the situation. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, alongside Fire Chief Sheldon Hao and Transportation Services Director Roger Morton, reiterated the need for calm and quick action from the public. Residents across Oahu are advised to evacuate to higher ground immediately as the tsunami threat looms.

The only airport currently closed is Hilo International Airport, with further precautions being implemented statewide. Two emergency alert sirens are set to sound: the first at 6:10 p.m. HST, an hour before the anticipated landfall, and another at 6:40 p.m. HST, just 30 minutes prior.

Governor Green has advised those in tsunami inundation zones to shelter in place on the fourth floor or higher of buildings. He strongly urged, “You must stay off the beaches and away from harbors, rivers, and low-lying areas. If you stay on beaches, you could risk death.”

In response to the emergency, Major General Stephen Logan, head of the state Department of Defense, announced that large National Guard cargo helicopters are on standby across Oahu, Hawaii Island, and Maui. Troops and soldiers have been activated to assist with debris removal and evacuation if necessary. “The rest of the National Guard is ready to respond and assist us if necessary,” Logan stated.

As Hawaii braces for this imminent crisis, residents are urged to stay informed and heed all warnings from local officials. The time to act is NOW.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing situation unfolds.