Dhaka, July 31 -- A massive earthquake struck off Russia's Far East coast on Wednesday, triggering tsunami waves that flooded a fishing port and cut power in some areas. However, authorities reported only minor injuries and no major structural damage, crediting preparedness measures for preventing a larger disaster.

The 8.8-magnitude earthquake hit near the Kamchatka Peninsula-an area often referred to as Russia's "land of fire and ice" due to its volcanic activity. Local officials declared a state of emergency in some areas but said the impact was less severe than initially feared.

Kamchatka Peninsula: volatile yet resilient

Kamchatka, located nine time zones east of Moscow, is one of the world's most seismically active regions, home ...