7.5 magnitude earthquake reported near Kuril Islands – tsunami warning issued for Hawaii

A large earthquake was reported Tuesday evening near the Kuril Islands, the U.S. Geological Survey said, putting the Hawaiian islands on tsunami watch. The 7.5 magnitude quake was reported at about 8 p.m. PT east of the Russian island chain, the USGS said, adding that it shook at a depth of about 35 miles.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said hazardous tsunami waves were possible within 1,000 kilometers of the quake’s epicenter. The Oahu Dept. of Emergency Management said Hawaii is on tsunami watch, as there is a danger of hazardous waves. The National Tsunami Warning Center is looking into the possibility of a tsunami threat for the West Coast of North America. This is a breaking news story and will be updated. –KATU