7.5-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Japan, Sparks Tsunami Scare

Tokyo: A powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck off the northern Japanese coast on Monday, and the Japan Meteorological Agency issued warnings and large-scale evacuations alert in the region. The massive earthquake triggered widespread panic and a brief tsunami warning across the region.

Where did the earthquake happen?

According to the country's apan Meteorological Agency, the strong earthquake struck off the coast of Sanriku in northern Japan at around 4:53 pm (0753 GMT), at a depth of about 10 kilometers (6 miles) below the sea surface. 

The earthquake struck in Pacific waters off northern Iwate prefecture and the tremor was strong enough to shake large buildings as far as Tokyo, hundreds of kilometres away.

What about Tsunami waves?

Japan’s NHK public television said a tsunami of up to 3 meters (10 feet) could hit the area shortly.

It also showed ships leaving Hachinohe port as a precaution, while emergency alerts flashed on screens urging people to evacuate immediately.

Emergency alerts broadcast across the region called on residents to move to higher ground or designated evacuation centers without delay.

What did Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi say?

After the tremors, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said that an emergency task force had been set up. He also appealed to residents in affected areas to evacuate to safer locations.

Prime Minister's Office also confirmed that a crisis management team had been established to coordinate emergency response efforts. Local governments activated disaster protocols, while trains and coastal transport services were temporarily suspended as a precaution.