Japan Hit by Powerful 6.7 Magnitude Earthquake, Tsunami Advisory Issued

Japan experienced a powerful 6.7 magnitude earthquake on Sunday evening, striking off the coast of Iwate Prefecture in the country’s northeast. The tremor triggered a tsunami advisory, prompting authorities to urge residents along coastal regions to move to higher ground as a precaution.

Earthquake Details

The quake struck around 5:03 p.m. local time at a shallow depth of about 10–16 kilometres. Strong shaking was felt across several areas, including Iwate and Miyagi prefectures, where tremors reached level 4 on Japan’s seismic intensity scale. Multiple aftershocks followed soon after, including one measuring 6.3 magnitude.

Tsunami and Safety Warnings

Following the quake, Japan’s Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory warning of possible waves up to 1 metre high. Small tsunami waves of around 10 to 20 centimetres were later observed in several coastal areas before the advisory was lifted after a few hours.

Impact and Response

Train services, including the Tōhoku Shinkansen, were temporarily halted for safety checks. No major injuries, fatalities, or significant structural damage have been reported so far. Authorities confirmed that nuclear power facilities in the region were unaffected. Emergency response teams were deployed, and citizens were advised to stay away from coastlines and remain cautious of potential aftershocks.

Japan’s Seismic Vulnerability

Japan sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most seismically active regions. The country frequently experiences earthquakes due to the movement of multiple tectonic plates beneath it. Officials reminded the public that even moderate quakes can pose tsunami risks, especially in coastal areas.

Current Situation

By late evening, the tsunami advisory was withdrawn, and transport services began to resume. Authorities continue to monitor for aftershocks and are conducting damage assessments. Residents were urged to stay alert and follow updates from official sources.

The quake, though moderate in scale compared to Japan’s past disasters, serves as a reminder of the nation’s constant exposure to seismic threats and the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone zones.