A powerful 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck Japan, leading to a tsunami warning and evacuations in certain regions of the country. The earthquake originated off the coast of Aomori Prefecture on Thursday, with observed “sea level fluctuations.” The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning for the central Pacific coast of Hokkaido, Pacific coast of Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi Prefectures.
Earlier in the week, Japan had raised concerns about a potential catastrophic earthquake that could result in significant casualties after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake on Monday. Following today’s 6.5 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Aomori Prefecture, the Japan Meteorological Agency promptly issued a tsunami advisory for the Pacific coast of Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi Prefectures. This advisory has since been lifted.
Residents were cautioned about potential one-meter high tsunami waves hitting the coast following the recent earthquake. In anticipation of such events, citizens were advised to assemble emergency kits containing essential supplies like food, water, and medication. Additionally, they were encouraged to have sturdy footwear and protective headgear on standby for swift evacuation if necessary.
While the extent of damage and injuries post-earthquake remains uncertain, reports indicate that tsunami waves measuring 0.2 meters have affected parts of Aomori Prefecture and the Hokkaido coast in Japan. An evacuation order has been enforced for 2,835 residences housing 6,138 individuals in Ofunato, Iwate, Japan.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan issued a warning earlier this week, urging citizens nationwide to remain prepared and evacuate promptly upon sensing any tremors. She emphasized the heightened risk of a major earthquake striking the region and urged the public to stay vigilant by staying informed through the Japan Meteorological Agency and local authorities.
Following the earthquake, no irregularities were reported at the Higashidori or Onagawa nuclear power plants. While the earthquake caused sea level fluctuations, there are no concerns regarding significant damage. Moreover, no tsunami threat looms over the western coasts of the US and Canada. However, a tsunami wave of around one meter is anticipated to reach the Pacific coast of Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi prefectures in Japan.
The earthquake has forced thousands of individuals to evacuate, with an evacuation order specifically issued for 2,835 residences accommodating 6,138 people in Ofunato, Iwate, Japan.