Strong Earthquake Hits Kamchatka

Magnitude 7.0 quake strikes near Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

No immediate reports of damage or injuries

A strong earthquake has hit the Kamchatka Peninsula in eastern Russia, near the city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. The quake, which had a magnitude of 7.0, struck at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) at 3:15 am local time on Saturday.

There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. However, the quake was felt strongly in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, where residents reported shaking and swaying buildings.

The quake was also felt in other parts of the Kamchatka Peninsula, as well as in the neighboring Sakhalin Oblast. No tsunami warning has been issued.

The Kamchatka Peninsula is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region of frequent seismic and volcanic activity. Earthquakes are common in the area, and the region is home to several active volcanoes.

The largest earthquake ever recorded in Kamchatka was a magnitude 9.0 quake that struck in 1952. That quake caused widespread damage and loss of life.

The latest earthquake is a reminder of the seismic hazard that exists in Kamchatka. Residents of the region should be prepared for future earthquakes and tsunamis.