Japan Earthquake: 33 Injured Amidst Megaquake Warning

Japan Issues Urgent Megaquake Alert Following Powerful 7.5 Magnitude Tremor

A powerful earthquake struck northern Japan late Monday night. The magnitude 7.5 tremor caused dozens of injuries and triggered tsunami warnings. The event has prompted officials to issue an urgent alert for a potential catastrophic megaquake in the region.

The quake hit off the coast of Aomori prefecture just before midnight. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, shaking was intense, reaching the second-highest level on Japan’s seismic scale. The agency has now warned residents to prepare for a significantly larger event.

megaquake alert

Immediate Aftermath and Lifted Tsunami Warnings

The earthquake injured at least 33 people. Most injuries were caused by falling objects inside homes and buildings. National broadcaster NHK reported damage to roads and infrastructure in the affected areas.

Tsunami waves of up to 70 centimeters were observed along the northeastern coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency initially warned waves could reach three meters. All tsunami advisories were lifted by early Tuesday morning.

Heightened Alert for a Catastrophic Follow-Up Quake

Japanese authorities are now on high alert for a potential megaquake. Officials cited lessons from the 2011 disaster, where a massive quake followed a large foreshock. The current megaquake advisory will remain in effect for one week.

This warning system was established after the devastating 2011 Tohoku earthquake. A government report in March projected a future megaquake could cause immense casualties and economic damage. Residents are being urged to secure furniture and prepare immediate evacuation plans.

The recent seismic activity has placed Japan’s resilient northeast on edge once more, with the official megaquake alert underscoring the ever-present threat along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Info at your fingertips

What magnitude was the Japan earthquake?

The earthquake was initially reported as magnitude 7.6. It was later revised down to a magnitude 7.5 by the Japan Meteorological Agency.

Were there any tsunami waves?

Yes. Tsunami waves up to 70 centimeters were recorded. All tsunami warnings and advisories have since been lifted by authorities.

What is a “megaquake” alert?

It is a one-week advisory issued after a powerful quake in the region. It warns of the potential for an even larger, catastrophic earthquake, based on patterns observed before the 2011 disaster.

Was there damage to nuclear facilities?

Officials reported a minor water leak at the Rokkasho fuel reprocessing plant. Safety checks were conducted at all nuclear power stations in the area, with no major abnormalities reported.

Why is Japan so prone to earthquakes?

Japan sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” This is a highly active seismic zone where tectonic plates meet, causing frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.