Tsunami Warning in Japan After Strong Earthquake Strikes Offshore
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off northeastern Japan at 4:53 p.m. local time, prompting tsunami warnings along the coastline, with waves expected to reach up to 3 meters in Iwate, Aomori, and Hokkaido.
- The quake was felt as far as Tokyo, several hundred miles away, causing visible shaking of electrical lines and household items, though no immediate damage or casualties were reported.
- Evacuation orders were issued for tens of thousands of people in coastal towns, with tsunami waves of approximately 31 inches recorded at Kuji Port in Iwate.
- Officials warned that similar magnitude earthquakes could occur in the coming week and advised residents to remain evacuated from low-lying areas until further notice.
- Train services between Tokyo and Aomori were suspended, but no abnormalities were detected at regional nuclear power plants following the shallow 10-kilometer deep quake.
