Update: Tsunami advisory canceled for Whatcom County lowlands
A tsunami advisory in effect for the western Whatcom County lowlands was canceled Wednesday morning.
The coastal areas of California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Alaska were under a tsunami watch Tuesday evening, which was later elevated to a tsunami advisory, after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck near the coast of Russia at 4:25 p.m. Pacific Time on July 29, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
A tsunami advisory means that a tsunami capable of producing strong currents or waves dangerous to people in or near the water is expected or is already occurring. Areas impacted by an advisory should not expect widespread inundation, however.
The National Tsunami Warning Center issued the advisory for the Washington Coast after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck near the coast of Russia at 4:25 p.m. Pacific Time on July 29, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Any impact to the Bellingham area was estimated to occur at about 1:10 a.m. Pacific Time on July 30. Those located along coastal areas were recommended to move off the beach and out of harbors and marinas. No damages or injuries were reported.
Tsunamis often arrive as a series of waves or surges, which could pose a danger for several hours after the arrival of the first waves. The first wave to arrive may not be the highest in the series of waves, according to the National Weather Service.
This story was originally published July 29, 2025 at 5:59 PM.
