A powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off Japan’s northern Pacific coast late Monday, triggering a tsunami warning and sending residents rushing to safer ground. The quake hit near Misawa in the Aomori region at 1415 GMT, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), at a depth of 53 kilometres.
Tsunami Waves Recorded Along Northern Coast
Japan’s Meteorological Agency reported multiple tsunami waves, with the first reaching Aomori’s coastline at 11:43 pm (1443 GMT). The waves measured up to 50 centimetres (20 inches), and authorities warned the situation could escalate.
Top government spokesman Minoru Kihara urged the public to remain in safe areas until the warning is officially lifted, stressing that “second or third waves may arrive with greater force.”
Injuries and Damage Reported
Local broadcaster NHK reported several injuries, citing a hotel employee in Hachinohe. Streets were shown littered with shattered glass, and residents were seen evacuating to the city hall for shelter.
The quake’s strong horizontal shaking was felt across Hokkaido, including in Sapporo, where emergency alerts sounded on smartphones. An NHK reporter described the tremors as strong enough to make it difficult to stand.
Tsunami Risk and Nuclear Plant Status
Authorities initially warned of a potential three-metre (10-foot) tsunami. Given Japan’s history—particularly the 2011 magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami that caused the Fukushima nuclear disaster—concerns quickly mounted.
However, Tohoku Electric Power confirmed that no abnormalities were detected at the Higashidori and Onagawa nuclear power plants. Investigations continue across other facilities to ensure safety.
Japan’s Ongoing Earthquake Vulnerability
Japan lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone of intense seismic activity. The country experiences about 1,500 earthquakes annually, though most are minor.
In early 2024, government panels increased the estimated probability of a major earthquake striking the Nankai Trough to 75–82% in the next 30 years. A projected “megaquake” in this region could result in as many as 298,000 deaths and up to $2 trillion in damage, making preparedness a national priority.
Evacuations Underway, Authorities on High Alert
Emergency teams, local officials, and Japan’s Meteorological Agency continue to monitor the situation. Residents have been urged to:
- Stay away from coastal areas
- Remain in designated shelters
- Follow official tsunami updates
- Avoid returning home until warnings are fully lifted
Japan’s advanced early-warning systems and public readiness are expected to help reduce potential casualties as aftershocks continue.