Japan Meteorological Agency The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that today (20 Apr) at approximately 16:53 Japan Standard Time, a 7.5-magnitude earthquake occurred with a maximum seismic intensity of 5+ on the Japanese scale. Its epicenter was located in the Pacific Ocean north of the country at a depth of 10 km. The earthquake was felt as far away as Tokyo, several hundred kilometers distant.
The Japan Meteorological Agency, after revising the magnitude from 7.4 to 7.5, issued a 3-meter tsunami warning for the coast of Iwate Prefecture and the central Pacific coast of Hokkaido Island. Additionally, warnings were issued for the Pacific coast of Aomori Prefecture. Advisory notices were also given for other areas along the Pacific coasts of Hokkaido and Aomori, as well as Miyagi and Fukushima Prefectures, urging residents in these regions to evacuate immediately. It was noted that multiple tsunami waves may arrive, and people should continue evacuating until all warnings are lifted.
Japan's Kyodo News reported that an 80-centimeter tsunami wave was detected at a port in Iwate Prefecture, while local media said the first tsunami waves had already reached Iwate, with one wave measuring 40 centimeters at the port of Miyako.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called on residents in the earthquake-affected areas to move to higher ground. Operators of nuclear power plants in Aomori and Miyagi Prefectures stated that no abnormalities have been reported at their facilities. Likewise, operators of the Fukushima nuclear power plant confirmed no irregularities have occurred there.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that another earthquake of similar magnitude to the 7.5 event could occur next week. Such warnings are standard procedure following a major earthquake. Officials also cautioned residents to remain vigilant for landslides or similar earthquakes later this week and noted that a larger tsunami than the first wave might occur.