Illinois Family's Hawaiian Vacation Upset by Tsunami Warning During Earthquake

Illinois Family's Hawaii Vacation Disrupted by Tsunami Alert Amid Earthquake VANDALIA, Ill. — An Illinois family experienced an unexpected turn during their Hawaiian holiday when tsunami warnings, issued following a powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia's coast, disrupted their plans. "We anticipated a memorable trip filled with wonderful experiences," said Jeff Endres. "Instead, we encountered a memory we won't forget." While exploring volcanic sites near Hilo, the Endres family was alerted to the tsunami threat. Their driver assured them they would return to the cruise ship promptly, though they were unaware of the ship's exact departure time. Rushing back to port, they witnessed a chaotic scene—hundreds of onlookers watching the ship sail away, with some children distressed. A volunteer shuttle eventually took the family to a local high school gymnasium to seek safety. The journey to higher ground took over two hours through heavy traffic. After spending the night on a bus and enduring nearly 19 hours onshore, the family was relieved when their ship returned to port. The cruise passengers aboard the ship greeted the returning travelers with applause. Reflecting on the ord...