Magnitude 6.9 Earthquake Strikes Off Japan's Northern Coast; Tsunami Advisory Lifted

A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off the coast of Iwate Prefecture in northern Japan at 5:03 p.m. local time on Sunday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The quake occurred at a depth of 16 kilometers and prompted a tsunami advisory for the region.

Small tsunami waves, ranging from 10 to 20 centimeters, were observed in coastal areas including Ofunato, Kuji, and Kamaishi. The advisory was lifted approximately three hours later, but authorities cautioned that the region could experience more strong earthquakes in the coming days.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage, and no abnormalities were detected at nearby nuclear power plants. Train services in the area experienced temporary delays. Japan, situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries.