Powerful Earthquake Strikes Off Northern Japan Coast
A strong earthquake with a revised magnitude of 6.9 and a depth of 16 kilometers (10 miles) struck off the coast of Iwate prefecture at 5:03 p.m. on Sunday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Seismic Activity and Tsunami Advisory
The initial quake was followed by several more tremors. The agency issued a tsunami advisory warning of waves up to 1 meter (3 feet) along the northern coastline, later increasing potential wave heights to 3 meters in some areas.
- A tsunami of about 10 centimeters (4 inches) was detected at Ofunato city in Iwate Prefecture, Ominato port, Miyako, and Kamaishi.
- Waves reached up to 20 centimeters (8 inches) in the coastal area of Kuji.
- The tsunami following the initial quake in Ofunato also reached 20 centimeters (8 inches).
No Immediate Damage or Nuclear Concerns
There were no reports of injuries, structural damages, or abnormalities at the two nuclear power plants located within the affected region.
Safety Measures During Advisory
During the advisory period, authorities urged residents to remain clear of ocean and coastal zones. The agency also warned that additional shaking could occur in the region, and tsunami waves might persist and occasionally grow larger over several hours.
Tsunami waves that follow earthquakes can continue for a few hours afterward, hitting the coast repeatedly, and can possibly get bigger with time.
After about three hours, the tsunami advisory was lifted.
Author's Summary
A strong 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck off Japan’s Iwate coast, triggering a tsunami advisory that was lifted after three hours without casualties or nuclear issues.