Powerful Earthquake Strikes Off Japan's Northeast Coast, Triggers Tsunami Warnings

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan late Monday night, prompting tsunami warnings and causing injuries and infrastructure disruptions. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the quake occurred at 11:15 p.m. local time, with an epicenter approximately 80 kilometers off Aomori Prefecture at a depth of 54 kilometers.

The tremor registered a maximum intensity of upper 6 on Japan's seismic scale in Hachinohe city, indicating severe shaking capable of toppling furniture and damaging buildings. Tsunami warnings were initially issued for Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate prefectures, with expectations of waves up to 3 meters. However, observed tsunami heights ranged from 20 to 70 centimeters, leading to a downgrade of the warnings to advisories.

Authorities confirmed 23 injuries, primarily due to falling objects. Power outages affected approximately 800 homes, and rail services, including the Shinkansen, were temporarily suspended. Safety checks at nuclear power plants in the region revealed no irregularities, though water spillage was reported at the Rokkasho nuclear facility without raising safety concerns.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi established an emergency task force and urged residents to remain vigilant due to the potential for aftershocks and further seismic activity. All tsunami advisories were lifted by 6:20 a.m. Tuesday.