Kamchatka, August 18– A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 struck the Kamchatka Peninsula in eastern Russia on Saturday evening, local time. The Geophysical Service of the Russian Academy of Sciences confirmed the quake, which was felt across the region, including in the capital, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake's epicenter was located about 90 kilometers east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky at a depth of 50 kilometers. The tremors triggered concern along the coast, and local authorities quickly mobilized emergency services.
Following the quake, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami warning, which was later lifted as the threat passed. The regional branch of Russia's Ministry of Emergency Services in Kamchatka stated in a telegram that teams of rescuers and fire services were dispatched to inspect buildings and assess potential damage.
While several aftershocks were reported after the initial earthquake, they were of lesser intensity. Fortunately, there have been no reports of significant damage or casualties in the affected areas. Russian news agency Tass confirmed that no major damage had been recorded, and no tsunami warnings were issued by local authorities.
The Kamchatka Peninsula is known for its seismic activity, situated within the Pacific "Ring of Fire," an area with frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The region is home to over a dozen active volcanoes, making it one of the most seismically active areas in the world.
As the situation continues to be monitored, emergency services remain on alert to respond to any further developments.
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