Tsunami of October 4, 1994 - Chronology

October 4, 1994


3:23am Hawai‘i Standard Time (HST)
Hokkaido, Japan: An earthquake occurred at 3:23am HST northeast of Hokkaido, Japan. The earthquake measured 8.5 on the Richter Scale and a tsunami was generated. The epicenter is located at 42.9N latitude, 147.2E longitude.

4:25am HST
A Pacific wide tsunami warning was issued at 4:25am HST. Estimated time of arrival in the Hawaiian islands is 10:29am HST at Nawiliwili Harbor on Kaua‘i.

6:30am HST
Civil Defense sirens are sounded alerting residents to the tsunami warning condition. Low-lying areas of all islands are being evacuated by Hawai‘i Civil Defense; visitors are being instructed to return to their hotels; all public schools are closed, including the University of Hawai‘i ; state offices are closed, except emergency services; airports remain open and are operating normal schedules.

7:45am HST
Wake Island: Preliminary wave heights are fairly small -- 2"-3" wave action reported at Wake Island as of 7:45am HST.

8:30am HST
Guam: 1-1/2 foot waves observed on Guam. Tsunami warning has been cancelled in Guam

10:30am HST
Kaua‘i: Minimal observed effects on Kaua‘i. Waimea side experienced slight surge. Waimea River -- water receded to the ocean, then returned; no damage.

10:45am HST
O‘ahu: No observed effects on O‘ahu.

11:00am HST
Hawai‘i : 1 foot waves observed in Hilo Bay.

12:10pm HST
Tsunami warning cancelled.

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