Japan Lifts Tsunami Warning After Strong Offshore Earthquake

(MENAFN) Japan has lifted a tsunami warning issued after a powerful offshore earthquake struck the country, though authorities continue to caution that further tremors may follow.

The earthquake, measured at magnitude 7.4 by international monitoring agencies and reported as stronger by domestic authorities, occurred in the evening near the northeastern coast, with its epicenter located offshore near Miyako in Iwate Prefecture.

Following the quake, tsunami alerts were issued for parts of Japan’s Pacific coastline, including areas in Aomori, Hokkaido, and Iwate. Emergency notifications urged residents in coastal and river regions to move immediately to higher ground and safer locations due to the risk of incoming waves.

Tsunami activity was observed in parts of the northeastern coastline, with waves detected along sections of the Pacific shoreline. Officials initially warned that wave heights could reach up to three meters, raising concerns for coastal communities.

The tsunami warning was later downgraded to an advisory after conditions stabilized, and the most urgent risk period passed. However, authorities stressed that seismic activity in the region may not be over.

Japan’s meteorological agency warned that aftershocks of similar magnitude remain possible in the coming days, maintaining a heightened state of vigilance.

In response to the earthquake, transport services including high-speed rail operations between Tokyo and northern regions were temporarily suspended as a precaution.

Officials also reported no immediate abnormalities at nuclear facilities in affected areas, easing concerns about infrastructure safety following the quake.

At the time of reporting, there were no confirmed major casualties or significant damage, though assessments were still ongoing as authorities continued monitoring seismic activity and coastal conditions.

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