Recent developments in the Asia-Pacific region have seen both the Philippines and Japan cancel their tsunami warnings following a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday morning. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has also indicated that the threat to the United States has largely passed.
In Taiwan, tsunami waves measuring nearly half a meter were observed in Chenggong, located approximately 100 km south of the earthquake's epicenter. While no major damage was reported, it is important to note that observed tsunami heights can increase significantly upon reaching the shore.
Similarly, in Japan, a 0.3-meter wave impacted Okinawa Island, with no significant impact on the airport operations. The airport was soon reopened following the incident.
On the other hand, the Philippines reported no significant sea level disturbances following the earthquake, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.
For the United States, including Hawaii, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has stated that the tsunami risk has largely subsided. While minor sea level fluctuations of up to 30 centimeters above and below normal tide levels may persist for the next few hours, the center has advised government agencies to monitor coastal conditions before resuming normal activities.
Furthermore, the center has issued a warning for coastal areas in Guam, Indonesia, Northern Marianas, Palau, the Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam, and Yap, where tsunami waves less than 0.3 meters may be observed.
