Tsunami Alert: Marquesas Islands Brace for Impact After Massive Quake

Authorities in French Polynesia have issued a tsunami alert for several Marquesas Islands following a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Russia's Far Eastern Kamchatka Peninsula.

Residents on islands such as Ua Huka, Nuku Hiva, and Hiva Oa have been advised to brace for waves reaching up to four meters early Wednesday morning. Other islands in the archipelago could see wave heights between 0.60 and 0.90 meters.

French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu stated that armed forces in the region are on standby for potential rescue operations. Residents have been urged to relocate to higher ground and safeguard boats, as the islands' unique and remote population faces potential danger.

(With inputs from agencies.)