Japan Issues Megaquake Advisory Following 7.5-Magnitude Earthquake

A 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan late Monday, injuring at least 50 people and prompting tsunami warnings. The quake occurred at 11:15 p.m. local time, with its epicenter approximately 80 kilometers off Aomori Prefecture at a depth of 54 kilometers. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the tremor registered an "upper 6" on Japan's seismic intensity scale in Hachinohe city, indicating severe shaking.

Tsunami warnings were issued for coastal regions including Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate prefectures, with initial predictions of waves up to 3 meters. Observed tsunamis ranged from 20 to 70 centimeters, leading to the evacuation of about 90,000 residents. The warnings were downgraded to advisories and lifted by early Tuesday morning.

The earthquake caused disruptions to transportation and utilities. Bullet train services on the Tohoku Shinkansen Line between Morioka and Shin-Aomori stations were suspended for inspections but resumed around 3:40 p.m. Tuesday. Approximately 1,360 homes in Aomori and Iwate prefectures experienced water outages due to damaged pipes. Classes were canceled at numerous public schools in the affected regions.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged residents to remain alert for information from local governments and the JMA over the next week and to prepare for another possible quake, including securing furniture. "The government asks residents to continue social and economic activities while maintaining a readiness to evacuate immediately if any shaking is felt," Takaichi stated.

The JMA issued a rare megaquake advisory, indicating a slightly increased chance of a magnitude 8 or greater earthquake in the coming days. This is the first time such an alert has been issued since the system was established in December 2022. The advisory covers 182 municipalities from Hokkaido to Chiba Prefecture.

No abnormalities were reported at nuclear plants in the affected regions. Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. temporarily suspended the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the sea after tsunami warnings were issued but resumed operations around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. The Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed that "no safety issues have been detected" at the plant.

Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and to prepare emergency kits, anchor furniture, and review evacuation plans. Authorities emphasize that while daily life should continue, increased awareness and preparedness are essential during this period.