Tsunami hits Hawaii: Traffic gridlock as residents evacuate low-lying areas; flights diverted
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Authorities in Hawaii have urged residents and tourists to evacuate low-lying coastal areas and move to higher ground as waves up to 10 feet were expected. 'You can expect a tsunami wave to hit the state, and it will not just hit one beach,' Hawaii Governor Josh Green said at a press conference. 'It will wrap around the islands', reported USA Today.
City's 911 emergency system has been overwhelmed with calls, as capital Honolulu faces gridlock amid mass evacuations.
Officials have urged the public to avoid calling 911 unless it's a life-threatening emergency.
Several Hawaii-bound flights have been diverted mid-air. Delta Air Lines Flight 311 to Kailua-Kona returned to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) after spending nearly four hours in the air.
Tsunami warning also extended to Alaska's coastal regions, from Samalga Pass to Attu in the Aleutian Islands, and remained in place for Hawaii.
US President Donald Trump also issued a cautionary message on X, urging people to stay informed. 'Due to a massive earthquake that occurred in the Pacific Ocean, a Tsunami Warning is in effect for those living in Hawaii. A Tsunami Watch is in effect for Alaska and the Pacific Coast of the United States. Japan is also in the way. STAY STRONG AND STAY SAFE!'
National Weather Service Los Angeles said that tsunami waves are expected around 1am local time. In a social media update, the NWS said, 'If you are located in the coastal area, move off the beach & out of harbors & marinas. Do not go to the coast to watch. Be alert to instructions from local EM officials.'
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