Major earthquake injures 30 in Japan, tsunami waves hit Pacific coast

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 has struck northeastern Japan, causing at least 30 injuries and generating tsunami waves along the Pacific coastline. The quake, which hit late Monday night local time, was centered off the coast of Aomori prefecture at a depth of approximately 53 kilometers, according to Japanese and international seismic agencies.

Regional Impact and Tsunami Warnings

The tremors were felt strongly in the Aomori and Hokkaido regions, areas located along a major seismic zone where the Pacific Plate subducts beneath the Japanese archipelago. Following the quake, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued tsunami warnings and advisories for multiple prefectures, including Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate. Waves measuring up to 70 centimeters reached the shore, prompting urgent evacuation orders for thousands of residents. These warnings were later downgraded.

Government Response and Ongoing Aftershock Risk

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged citizens to remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuation, advising them to secure household items and follow official updates. Authorities issued a stern warning that the region could experience another earthquake of similar or greater intensity in the coming days. Several aftershocks, some as strong as magnitude 6.6, were recorded in the hours following the main shock.

Infrastructure and Nuclear Safety

The seismic event caused power outages affecting around 2,700 homes in Aomori prefecture. A significant outcome was the confirmation by officials that no abnormalities were reported at nuclear power plants in Hokkaido, Aomori, Miyagi, or Fukushima—the latter being the site of the 2011 nuclear disaster. This event underscores Japan's advanced preparedness and the persistent seismic threats facing the nation, a subject of close study for other earthquake-prone countries like Türkiye.