7.4-Magnitude Quake Strikes Off Japan, Tsunami Warning Issued

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan on Monday afternoon, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami warning for waves up to three meters in parts of Iwate, Aomori and Hokkaido prefectures.

The quake occurred at 4:53 p.m. local time in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 10 kilometers below the surface and near the coast of Iwate prefecture. It registered an upper 5 on Japan's seven-level seismic intensity scale, a level at which it becomes difficult to stand or walk without support and unreinforced concrete walls may collapse. Tremors were felt strongly across northern Japan and as far south as Tokyo, where large buildings swayed for several minutes, according to reports from residents and officials.

In response, authorities urged immediate evacuations from coastal and riverside areas to higher ground or designated shelters. "Evacuate immediately from coastal regions and riverside areas to a safer place such as high ground or an evacuation building," the Japan Meteorological Agency stated. "Tsunami waves are expected to hit repeatedly. Do not leave safe ground until the warning is lifted." Broadcasters like NHK displayed...