French Polynesia has issued a tsunami alert and ordered coastal residents to higher ground after a huge earthquake in Japan that sent powerful waves across the Pacific.
All schools have been closed throughout the French territory.
French Polynesia’s high commission said the first high waves are expected to hit the Sous-le-Vent Islands at 6:50 a.m. local time Friday (1650 GMT), and then soon afterward hit Tahiti.
The highest waves, of up to three meters (about 10 feet), are expected to hit the Marquesas Islands.
Authorities ordered residents there to seek refuge in sites at least 20 meters (66 feet) above sea level.
