Tsunami Warnings Across Japan After 7.4 Earthquake in Sanriku
Authorities warned that waves of up to 3 meters could reach coastal areas, with alerts issued for parts of Hokkaido and Iwate prefectures. Public broadcaster NHK reported that residents in affected regions were urged to move to higher ground immediately.
A powerful earthquake struck off Japan’s northern coast on Sunday, prompting tsunami warnings and emergency alerts across parts of the country.
The quake, with a preliminary magnitude of 7.4, hit off the Sanriku coast at around 4:53 p.m. local time, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. It occurred at a shallow depth of roughly 10 kilometers beneath the seabed, increasing the risk of tsunami activity.
Authorities warned that waves of up to 3 meters could reach coastal areas, with alerts issued for parts of Hokkaido and Iwate prefectures. Public broadcaster NHK reported that residents in affected regions were urged to move to higher ground immediately.
Officials cautioned that the first wave may not be the largest, warning that more significant tsunami surges could follow. The meteorological agency also said similarly strong aftershocks are possible over the coming week, a standard advisory following major seismic events.
Residents were further warned to remain alert for landslides and additional tremors as emergency services monitor the situation.