Tsunami Alert Lifted in Marquesas Islands: Residents Advised Caution

Authorities lifted the tsunami alert in French Polynesia’s Marquesas Islands but urged ongoing caution. Waves, reaching 1.50 meters, followed an 8.8-magnitude quake in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. Residents were advised to evacuate earlier. Despite the threat diminishing, residents should avoid shorelines and river mouths.

Local authorities in French Polynesia lifted the tsunami alert for the Marquesas Islands, allowing residents to return home while advising continued caution. Initially feared to be significant, the waves peaked at 1.50 meters, lower than the expected 4 meters.

The tsunami waves were triggered by an 8.8-magnitude earthquake striking Russia's Far Eastern Kamchatka Peninsula. Prior to the waves' arrival, residents were instructed to seek higher ground or move offshore as a precaution.

Though wave heights in other parts of French Polynesia remained below 30 centimeters, authorities advised residents to stay clear of shorelines and river mouths. The remote islands in French Polynesia, home to about 9,500 individuals, remain vigilant.

(With inputs from agencies.)