A powerful magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck off the coast of northern Japan on Monday, triggering tsunami warnings and prompting emergency evacuations in coastal communities.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake hit at 4:53 p.m. local time in waters off Iwate Prefecture along Japan’s Pacific coast. The tremor was strong enough to be felt hundreds of kilometres away, including in Tokyo, where buildings reportedly shook.
Authorities warned that tsunami waves of up to three metres could reach parts of the northern coastline. Residents in affected coastal and riverside areas were urged to move immediately to higher ground or designated evacuation buildings and remain there until warnings are officially lifted.
Live broadcasts from public broadcaster NHK showed no immediate major damage at several ports in Iwate shortly after the quake, though emergency assessments were still underway.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government had activated a crisis management team to coordinate response efforts and gather information on possible injuries or structural damage.
Japan is among the most earthquake-prone countries in the world due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where several tectonic plates meet. The country experiences frequent seismic activity and maintains extensive preparedness systems.
The latest quake also revived memories of the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami that struck northeastern Japan, causing widespread destruction and the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
Officials continue to monitor aftershocks and coastal conditions, while residents are being advised to follow evacuation orders and official updates closely.