Newsletters
Japan has issued a special advisory warning that the risk of a magnitude 8.0 or stronger earthquake has risen following a powerful tremor that struck the country’s north and triggered a tsunami alert.
Authorities moved quickly to put out a warning after a major earthquake shook northern Japan, with the Japan Meteorological Agency noting that the likelihood of another large quake is now higher than under normal conditions.
The advisory, described as a precautionary step, came hours after the initial tremor was felt across a wide area.
The agency said in a statement that “the likelihood of a new, huge earthquake occurring is relatively higher than during normal times,” signaling an elevated but uncertain risk.
The earthquake struck in the Pacific waters off Iwate prefecture at 4:53 p.m. local time, initially measured at 7.4 before being revised upward to 7.7.
Despite the offshore epicenter, the shaking was strong enough to rattle large buildings in Tokyo, located hundreds of kilometers away.
Officials said there were no immediate reports of serious injuries or significant damage. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara confirmed the situation remained under control during a news briefing.
At the same time, authorities stressed the need for preparedness. A Cabinet Office official said that while it remains uncertain whether another major earthquake will occur, residents should act on the assumption that they are responsible for their own safety and take necessary precautions.
Officials are calling on the public to stay alert and prepare for potential aftershocks or larger seismic activity, reflecting Japan’s standard approach to disaster readiness in periods of heightened risk.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
5 min read
