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In the wake of the quake, tsunami alerts were issued from Japan to Chile, with particularly significant warnings for French Polynesia. Governments and emergency agencies acted swiftly, urging coastal residents to evacuate to higher ground. The message was clear and urgent: "You will be getting a ticket if you don't leave," emphasizing the importance of safety over complacency.
Impact on the United States
Across the United States, the impact was felt overnight with waves reaching as high as five feet in certain areas. Hawaii was particularly affected, with residents and tourists in Maui's North Shore experiencing wave surges. Despite the waves being sizable, the overall threat was seen as managed, with authorities indicating that the worst was over but cautioning continued vigilance.