Strong Earthquake Hits North-East Japan, Thousands Told to Evacuate
A powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck north-eastern Japan late on Monday, forcing tens of thousands of residents to leave their homes as authorities issued tsunami alerts.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the quake occurred at 23:15 local time (14:15 GMT) at a depth of around 50 km (31 miles) and about 80 km off the coast of Aomori Prefecture.
Initial tsunami warnings were later reduced to advisories, though small waves — reaching about 70 cm (27 inches) — were recorded along the coast.
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed that at least seven people were injured and urged residents to stay cautious, warning that more tremors or aftershocks could occur over the next week.
Speaking to affected communities, she said:
“Please check your emergency supplies, secure heavy furniture, and be ready to evacuate immediately if you feel strong shaking.”
Government officials say approximately 90,000 people were advised to evacuate, according to reports.
Japan has activated an emergency disaster response team to monitor damage, coordinate rescue operations, and support affected regions, government spokesperson Minoru Kihara said.
Some bullet train services along the eastern coast have been suspended as a safety precaution.
Energy officials confirmed that no unusual activity or damage was detected at the Higashidori, Onagawa, or Fukushima nuclear facilities.
Japan experienced its deadliest modern disaster when a magnitude 9.0 earthquake triggered a massive tsunami in March 2011, killing more than 18,000 people and causing the Fukushima nuclear meltdown.
Located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” Japan experiences frequent seismic activity — with minor tremors recorded every few minutes.