The US Geological Survey (USGS) has issued a tsunami warning for Hawaii after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the state.
A powerful earthquake struck off the coast of Hawaii on October 27th, sending residents into a panic as they evacuated their homes and gathered in higher ground. The earthquake hit at 6:32 am local time, with the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issuing a tsunami warning for coastal areas of Hawaii, including Oahu and Maui. There have been no reports of injuries or damage so far but it is still too early to tell what impact the quake will have on the islands.
What is a tsunami?
A tsunami is an ocean wave caused by an underwater disturbance such as an earthquake or landslide. It can also be caused by volcanic eruptions or meteorite impacts. When these disturbances occur under water, they send out large waves that can travel across oceans at speeds of up to 500 miles per hour (800 kilometers per hour). These waves can cause flooding and damage when they reach land.
How big was this earthquake?
The US Geological Survey said that the quake had a magnitude of 7.7, making it one of the largest earthquakes to hit Hawaii since 1975.
