Guam, CNMI updated to tsunami advisory
- Admin
- Jul 30
- 3 min read
The U.S. Geological Survey recorded an earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 8.0, which was later upgraded to a magnitude of 8.7, that occurred 133 km SE of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia, with a depth of 74.0 km, at 9:24 a.m. (ChST).
Based on all available data, there is a threat to Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan, of sea level fluctuations and strong ocean currents that could be hazardous along beaches, in harbors, and in coastal waters.
The earliest estimated time that hazardous sea level fluctuations and strong currents may begin in Guam, Rota, Tinian, or Saipan is 2:37 p.m. (ChST).
Based on all available data, there is a threat of sea level fluctuations and strong ocean currents that could be hazardous along beaches, in harbors, and in coastal waters. Potential wave impacts could be 1-3 feet in coastal areas, with strong currents.
Estimated times of arrival of the initial tsunami wave are given below.
Actual arrival times may differ and the initial wave may not the be largest. A tsunami is a series of waves and the time between waves can be five minutes to one hour.
LOCATION REGION COORDINATES ETA(CHST)
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PATI POINT GUAM 13.6N 145.0E 251 PM 07/30
PAGO BAY GUAM 13.4N 144.8E 253 PM 07/30
INARAJAN GUAM 13.3N 144.8E 253 PM 07/30
APRA HARBOR GUAM 13.5N 144.6E 257 PM 07/30
/3 APRA HARBOR GUAM 13.5N 144.6E
As of 1107 ChST, the latest information from Pacific Tsunami Warning Center shows the possibility of tsunami waves of 0.3m to 1.0m (roughly 1-3.3ft) throughout the Marianas, Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands.
Current ETAs (times are local to each island):
Guam/Rota: 250 PM
Saipan/Tinian: 236 PM
Wake Island: 350 PM
Majuro: 543 PM
Kwajalein: 521 PM
Kosrae: 443 PM
Pohnpei: 442 PM
Chuuk: 412 PM
Yap: 332 PM
Palau: 312 PM
Residents are advised to stay out of the water and move away from beaches and harbors, at least 100 feet inland, and 50 feet up.
As advised by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, a tsunami watch is now in effect for Guam and the CNMI. The tsunami threat to Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan from this earthquake is still being evaluated.
Stay alert for further information. The tsunami watch could be canceled or elevated to an advisory or warning. If a tsunami threat exists, the earliest estimated arrival time of tsunami waves within Guam, Rota, Tinian, or Saipan, would be 2:37 p.m. (ChST).
Traffic is backed up on Marine Corps Drive as residents head for higher ground. Most have evacuated to Agana Heights, located in the hills south of Hagåtña, with an elevation of 52 meters.
The Port Authority of Guam is taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its personnel and infrastructure.
The Port will suspend all operations from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. This includes gatehouse, and all terminal yard operations. Port staff are actively securing all critical safety protocols, including the tie-down of all three gantry cranes. Additionally, Port Police are actively notifying marina users and tenants in areas that include the Agana Boat Basin, the Agat Marina, Harbor of Refuge, and Family Beach.
Port employees will be advised during this time to evacuate and to seek higher ground.
Bank of Guam announces the early closure of all its branches in Guam and the CNMI today at 12:30 p.m. in response to the tsunami advisory, and with care and safety for our community and employees.
"To ensure safety, Bank of Guam encourages residents in coastal areas to move to higher ground — at least 100 feet inland or 50 feet above sea level — and stay alert," BOG said. "We will continue monitoring the situation closely and share updates through our website and social media channels. In the meantime, we encourage everyone to stay informed via official emergency management agencies and local news."
Most governmetn of Guam agencies hace also suspended their operations.
All Community First Guam Federal Credit Union member service centers will be closing at 1:30 p.m.
