Tokyo: Japan earthquake fears have intensified after a strong 7.5 magnitude tremor has struck off the northeastern coast, prompting evacuation orders for around 90,000 residents and tsunami warnings across several prefectures.
The earthquake has been felt widely in Aomori, Iwate and Hokkaido, where residents have moved to higher ground following emergency alerts from authorities. The Japan Meteorological Agency has said the quake occurred late at night with an epicentre around 80 kilometres off Aomori prefecture at a depth of 54 kilometres.
Initial warnings suggested tsunami waves of up to 3 metres could reach the coast, although later observations recorded waves between 20 and 70 centimetres at several ports. By early morning, these warnings were downgraded to advisories as the perceived risk reduced.
Seismic intensity reached an upper 6 on Japan’s scale in Hachinohe, making it difficult to stand and causing damage to buildings and infrastructure. Heavy furniture has reportedly toppled in some locations, while wall tiles and windows have been damaged.
Public broadcaster NHK has reported injuries in Hachinohe, with several people taken to hospital in a conscious state. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has said that seven injuries have been confirmed so far.
Rail services operated by East Japan Railway have been suspended in parts of the region, disrupting transport links in an area still sensitive due to past disasters. Power outages initially affected thousands of households before numbers were reduced to the hundreds, according to utility providers.
The Japan earthquake has also renewed attention on disaster preparedness, particularly given the region’s history. Northeastern Japan was devastated in March 2011 by a 9.0 magnitude quake and tsunami that killed nearly 20,000 people and caused the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Authorities have confirmed that no abnormalities have been detected at nuclear plants following the latest tremor.
Officials have warned that more powerful earthquakes could occur over the coming days and have issued a broad advisory urging residents along the Pacific coast to remain vigilant. The government’s one-week ‘megaquake’ advisory system has been activated to ensure preparedness measures remain in place.
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