Tsunami watches are issued for large portions of the Western U.S. coast

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins has issued a message this morning after a magnitude 8.8 earthquake rocked the Bering Sea, raising concerns for farmers and ranchers along the Western U.S. seaboard.

The earthquake struck around 300 miles East of Russia’s coastline last night, around 6:30 PM Eastern. NOAA has been tracking the aftermath, issuing tsunami watches and warnings for Hawaii and Alaska, as well as trading partners like Japan.

Secretary Rollins says USDA is closely watching the developments, making sure all USDA employees and partners are safe. She is urging prayers for all those impacted.

RFD-TV Meteorologist Kirk Harnack gives the latest news for farmers and ranchers along the coast, as well as what he has heard from colleagues.

Related Stories
Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share practical health and safety guidance for managing respiratory and skin health during the winter season.
Prompt removal of Christmas trees and careful handling of decorations reduce winter fire risk during an already high-demand season for emergency services.
Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.
Weather, Tight Supplies, and Planning Shape Farm Decisions
The New Year is here, but in Oregon, some ranchers and livestock producers are still trying to recover from record wildfires back in 2024.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.