A powerful earthquake struck off the northern coast of Japan on Monday, prompting authorities to issue tsunami alerts and evacuation advisories across several coastal regions.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake registered a preliminary magnitude of 7.5 and occurred off the coast of Sanriku at approximately 07:53 GMT. The earthquake originated at a shallow depth of around 10 kilometers beneath the sea, increasing the risk of tsunami activity.
Initial tsunami waves were detected shortly after the quake. At Kuji port in Iwate Prefecture, waves measuring about 80 centimeters were recorded, while another location in the prefecture reported waves of approximately 40 centimeters.
Authorities warned that tsunami waves could reach heights of up to 3 meters, urging residents to move away from coastal areas and riverbanks immediately and seek shelter on higher ground.
Local officials in Iwate issued non-binding evacuation advisories for residents in 11 towns as a precautionary measure. Tsunami alerts were also extended to neighboring regions, including Aomori Prefecture and southeastern Hokkaido.
Meanwhile, lower-level tsunami advisories were issued for coastal areas further south, including Miyagi Prefecture and Fukushima Prefecture.
The meteorological agency also cautioned that aftershocks could continue for up to a week following the initial quake.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as emergency services remain on alert. Residents in affected regions have been advised to stay vigilant and follow official guidance as the risk of further seismic activity and tsunami waves persists.
