An earthquake of 6.7 magnitude struck Japan, leading to a tsunami alert and evacuations in certain areas. The seismic event occurred off the coast of Aomori Prefecture on Thursday, triggering ‘sea level fluctuations’ detection. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning for the central Pacific coast of Hokkaido and the Pacific coast of Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi Prefectures.
Earlier this week, Japan raised concerns over a potential megaquake, fearing a death toll of up to 200,000 people after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake on Monday. Following a 6.5 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Aomori Prefecture this morning, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory. The advisory, covering the Pacific coast of Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi Prefectures, has now been lifted.
Residents were cautioned about potential one-meter-high tsunami waves hitting the coast after the recent earthquake. Japanese citizens were advised to have emergency supplies such as food, water, and medication for several days, along with sturdy shoes and protective helmets for quick evacuation needs.
The extent of damage and injuries from the earthquake remains unclear. An advisory is considered less severe than a warning. Reports indicate that tsunami waves of 0.2 meters affected various areas in Aomori Prefecture and the Hokkaido coast. An evacuation order was issued for 2,835 residences, totaling 6,138 individuals in Ofunato, Iwate, Japan.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged citizens to remain vigilant and prepared for any tremors, emphasizing the importance of following guidance from authorities and being ready to evacuate promptly. No abnormalities were reported at the Higashidori or Onagawa nuclear power plants post-earthquake. While the earthquake caused ‘sea level fluctuations,’ no significant damage concerns were raised. Additionally, no tsunami threat exists for the western coasts of the US and Canada.
A one-meter-high tsunami wave is anticipated to reach the Pacific coast of Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi prefectures in Japan. The earthquake prompted the evacuation of thousands of individuals, with an evacuation order issued for 2,835 residences in Ofunato, Iwate, Japan.