TOKYO (AP) On Friday, Japan issued a tsunami advisory following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that rattled the country’s northeast region. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the earthquake struck off the east coast of Aomori prefecture, located in the northern part of Honshu, the main island of Japan. The quake occurred at a depth of 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) at approximately 11:44 a.m. local time.
The JMA indicated that the Pacific coast regions of Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi prefectures could potentially experience a tsunami measuring up to 1 meter (3.2 feet). At this time, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries related to Friday’s earthquake. It is important to note that an advisory represents a lower level of caution compared to a warning.
This recent quake came just days after a more powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the same area earlier in the week. That seismic event resulted in at least 34 reported injuries, as well as minor damage and a tsunami affecting coastal communities along the Pacific. Following the Monday quake, which originated off the coast of Aomori, a tsunami measuring more than 2 feet (0.6 meters) above tide levels was recorded at Kuji port in Iwate prefecture before all related tsunami advisories were subsequently lifted. In addition, widespread power outages affected hundreds of homes, although most of that service was restored by Tuesday morning.
Authorities had cautioned residents about the possibility of aftershocks following Monday’s earthquake. Officials also noted an increased risk of a higher magnitude seismic event, specifically a potential magnitude 8 quake and associated tsunami, along Japan's northeastern coast extending from Chiba, located just east of Tokyo, to Hokkaido. The JMA urged residents in 182 municipalities in this region to assess their emergency preparedness levels over the coming week. They emphasized that this caution should not be interpreted as a direct prediction of a significant earthquake.
These recent quakes have occurred in a coastal region that is historically vulnerable to significant seismic activity. Notably, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in 2011 resulted in nearly 20,000 fatalities and caused catastrophic damage to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.
This series of seismic events highlights the ongoing geological volatility in the region and the importance of preparedness among residents in affected areas. With the potential for aftershocks and further seismic activity, the JMA continues to monitor the situation closely while advising vigilance among communities at risk.
