Hawaii avoids major tsunami

The US state of Hawaii issued a tsunami warning following the quake and responded by evacuating beach-side residents. But no major waves were reported and the warning was lifted on Saturday afternoon.

Civil defense sirens blared in Hawaii early on Saturday morning. Emergency vehicles patrolling coastal areas urged people to seek higher ground.

At this petrol station, residents queued before sunrise to buy fuel.

Dennis Lopez, Hawaii Resident, said, "Got to get things ready for survival mode now. We're due for one of these things anyway."

Honolulu tourist continue to visit the beach in Hawaii. (AFP/Rob Shikina)