SEATTLE — After a strong 8.8-magnitude earthquake hit Russia on Tuesday, a tsunami warning was issued. This caused Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to stop all flights to Hawaii.
Flights to Hawaii have officially resumed with the Alaska Airlines. Airports across the Hawaiian islands have reopened. The update came Wednesday morning through KOMO News.
Waves up to five feet high reached Hawaii, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Late Tuesday night, both airlines made an emergency announcement. They warned passengers about possible tsunami waves.
Some planes that were already flying were sent back to the mainland. Others were rerouted.
Passengers could change their travel plans without extra fees. Still, some flights may get delayed or canceled. Travelers should keep checking their flight status.
The tsunami warning for Hawaii and Northern California was lowered to an advisory by mid-morning.
Emergency officials in Hawaii said the worst danger had passed. They canceled evacuations statewide, according to O’ahu Emergency Management.
According to official forecasts, tsunami waves were anticipated to arrive in Hawaii at 1:17 a.m. EST on Wednesday. Just an hour later, at 2:15 a.m. EST, O’ahu Emergency Services told people to find shelter.
The warning led to big evacuations near the coast. Many roads became jammed.
In the U.S., the National Weather Service has several levels of tsunami alerts:
— A warning means flooding is likely. To stay safe, leave low-lying areas immediately and move to higher ground without delay.
— An advisory gives signals the risk of strong waves or currents. People should stay away from beaches and water.