Tokyo: A powerful earthquake struck northeast and northern Japan on Monday, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning for coastal areas.
The earthquake’s magnitude is measured between 7.4 and 7.5, according to initial estimates. It struck at around 4:53 pm local time.
According to Reuters, the tremor occurred off the northeast coast in the Pacific Ocean at a shallow depth of about 10 kilometres, making its impact more intense at the surface.
The earthquake caused strong shaking across several regions and raised concerns about possible damage.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has urged residents along the northeastern coast of Japan to move to higher ground following the tsunami warnings. Authorities warned that waves could strike coastal areas soon, and the prime minister called for immediate evacuation to safer locations.
Japan’s weather agency said the quake registered “upper 5” on the country’s seismic intensity scale of 7. This level of shaking is considered strong enough to make it difficult for people to move and can cause damage to buildings, especially older structures. In some cases, unreinforced concrete walls may collapse under such conditions.
Authorities issued a tsunami warning soon after the earthquake, forecasting waves of up to 3 metres along parts of the Pacific coast. Areas expected to be affected include Hokkaido, Iwate, and Aomori prefectures. Residents in coastal regions were urged to move to higher ground as a precaution.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said the epicentre was located offshore, which increases the risk of tsunami formation. Emergency services were placed on alert, and local authorities began monitoring the situation closely for any signs of damage or casualties.
Tsunami waves hit the northern coast minutes after quake
An 80-centimetre tsunami wave was recorded at a port in Kuji, northern Japan, shortly after a powerful earthquake struck the region, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The wave was observed at 5:34 pm local time, following an earlier 70-centimetre surge recorded just two minutes before.
Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where several tectonic plates meet. The country has strict building codes and disaster preparedness systems, which help reduce the impact of such natural disasters.
There were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries, but officials warned that aftershocks could follow in the coming hours or days. People were advised to stay cautious and follow official guidance.
The situation remains under close watch as authorities assess the full impact of the earthquake and the potential threat from tsunami waves.
