Magnitude 7.4 earthquake strikes off eastern coast of Russia

The 7.4 earthquake struck off the east coast of Russia early Friday. (USGS)

A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck off the east coast of Russia early Friday local time, initially sparking warnings of a tsunami.

The United States Geological Survey said the quake was about five miles deep and struck before 5 a.m. local time about 50 miles west of Nikol’skoye.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said earlier that hazardous waves were possible for coasts within 186 miles of the epicenter along the coasts of Russia.

"Persons located in threatened coastal areas should stay later for information and follow instructions from national and local authorities," the agency said.

The tsunami threat connected to the earthquake eventually subsided.

Minutes after the initial quake, a magnitude 5.6 aftershock was also reported in the area.

AFTER BIG EARTHQUAKE, AFTERSHOCKS CONTINUE TO RATTLE ALASKA

The quake in Russia came nearly three weeks after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake shook up southcentral Alaska, which continues to register frequent aftershocks. The large earthquake caused millions in damage but no deaths or injuries.