Japan Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Advisory for Iwate Prefecture
Japan issued a tsunami advisory for Iwate Prefecture on Sunday evening after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck offshore in the northern Pacific region, raising concerns about possible waves up to one metre high.
Earthquake Details
- The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake at magnitude 6.8.
- India's National Center for Seismology (NCS) measured it slightly lower, at 6.6.
- The earthquake occurred roughly 30 km beneath the ocean surface at coordinates 39.51° N latitude and 143.38° E longitude.
- The tremor was recorded around 5:03 pm local time.
Tsunami Warning and Public Response
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) promptly issued a tsunami advisory for the Iwate coastline.
"A tsunami advisory has been issued," AFP quoted the agency, cautioning residents about waves potentially reaching the shore with little warning.
Public broadcaster NHK confirmed tsunami waves had been detected offshore and advised people to avoid beaches and coastal areas.
Live television images showed calm waters in multiple locations despite the advisory.
Historical Context
The event brought back memories of Japan's 2011 disaster, when a magnitude 9.0 undersea earthquake unleashed a massive tsunami that caused around 18,500 deaths and missing persons.
That catastrophe also led to meltdowns at three nuclear reactors in the Fukushima plant, marking one of the most severe nuclear crises since Chernobyl.
Summary: A strong offshore earthquake off Japan's northeast coast prompted a tsunami warning for Iwate, evoking memories of the 2011 disaster while authorities urge caution amid mostly calm seas.