Post by : Bianca
Haleem
On Monday, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake jolted northern Japan, as reported by the Japan Meteorological Agency, leading to a tsunami warning for coastal areas.
The seismic event struck at 4:53 pm local time (0753 GMT) in the Pacific Ocean near Iwate Prefecture, generating strong tremors that reached buildings in Tokyo, hundreds of kilometers away.
Officials have warned of potential tsunami waves measuring up to three meters (10 feet) along the northern coast, with the first waves expected to arrive swiftly.
Residents in low-lying and riverside locations were urged to evacuate immediately to higher grounds or designated shelters. Officials cautioned that tsunami waves could be recurrent and advised staying in safe zones until the all-clear is given.
The Prime Minister’s Office has established a crisis management team to oversee the situation and ensure effective emergency responses.
Japan, situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is known for frequent seismic activity, experiencing about 1,500 earthquakes annually, contributing to nearly 18% of global seismic occurrences.
While most earthquakes are minor, more intense quakes can cause severe destruction. The catastrophic 9.0-magnitude earthquake in 2011 resulted in a massive tsunami that claimed around 18,500 lives and triggered the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
Authorities remain vigilant and continue to urge the public to adhere to safety advisories.
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