Following the recent 8.8-magnitude earthquake off the Russian coast and the resulting tsunami alerts issued across the Pacific – including Japan, Hawaii, Guam, and parts of the US West Coast – we want to reassure AllClear customers who are currently travelling or are about to travel.
If you’re in an affected area, your safety is our first concern. Please continue to follow all local authority advice, including evacuation instructions and safety alerts.
Earthquake strikes Eastern Russia
On Tuesday morning (29 July), a colossal 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the Kamchatka Peninsula in far eastern Russia, making it the sixth strongest earthquake on record. The tremor generated tsunami waves up to 5 metres high.
Authorities in Russia, Japan, Hawaii, Guam, Alaska, and California moved swiftly, issuing tsunami warnings and mass evacuations from coastal areas. In Japan alone, over 900,000 people were relocated.
With aftershocks still possible, and warnings continuing in coastal areas, this is a moment of high alert across the Pacific.
What should you do?
If you’re currently travelling or preparing to travel to a destination affected by the earthquake or tsunami alerts:
If you’re abroad:
- Follow local authority advice – Prioritise your safety and evacuate to higher ground if instructed. Stay away from beaches and coastal areas.
- Stay informed – Monitor official updates from local emergency services, the UK FCDO, or the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
- Keep your documents safe – Have your passport, travel documents, and AllClear policy information to hand.
- Use your AllClear emergency contacts – We’re available 24/7 to support you with medical emergencies or questions about your cover.
- Remain where it’s safe – Do not return to evacuated areas until authorities declare it’s safe to do so.
If you haven’t travelled yet:
- Check travel advisories – Visit FCDO travel advice for the latest guidance on your destination.
- Review your AllClear policy – Understand what’s included, especially if you’ve opted for natural disaster or trip disruption cover.
- Contact us if you need clarity on your cover
Your medical emergencies are still covered
If you’re currently abroad in a region affected by the recent earthquake and the tsunami warnings, we want to reassure you that you can contact the 24/7 AllClear assistance team in case of any medical emergency on +44 (0) 203 467 4122.
Natural disaster cover – what’s included?
Tsunamis and earthquakes are classed as natural disasters. Cover related to these events only applies if you selected the Natural Disaster Optional Extra when purchasing your AllClear policy.
If you have this optional extra, cover is available under these sections:
- Section A – Delay
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- Expenses if your transport is delayed over 12 hours
- Holiday abandonment if no alternative is offered within 24 hours, or your new flight is overbooked
- Section B – Missed Departure
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- Cover for alternative transport if connecting travel fails due to a natural disaster
- Section C – Accommodation
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- Replacement accommodation if your hotel or rental becomes unavailable due to the earthquake or tsunami alert, even in another area of the country
If you’re currently abroad and have the Natural Disaster Optional Extra, we will extend your cover for up to 30 days beyond your original travel dates at no extra cost.
We’re here for you
We will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves. If you need us, we’re only a phone call away. Stay safe.
