Did Japan's Weather Agency Just Issue a Tsunami Alert for Iwate Prefecture Following a 6.7 Magnitude Earthquake?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- A tsunami advisory was issued for Iwate Prefecture following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake.
- Seismic intensity of 4 was recorded in parts of Iwate and Miyagi prefectures.
- Evacuations were advised from coastal areas due to potential tsunami risks.
- Power outages affected the region, leading to disruptions in train services.
- Authorities warned of possible aftershocks and a larger tsunami.
Tokyo, Nov 9 (NationPress) The Japanese meteorological authority issued a tsunami warning for Iwate Prefecture following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that occurred in the Pacific Ocean off northeastern Japan. This seismic event led to power outages and a temporary suspension of Shinkansen bullet train services, according to local news sources.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that a tsunami wave of up to 1 meter could impact the prefecture due to the earthquake, which struck the Sanriku coast at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers, reported Kyodo News. The earthquake, happening at 5:03 PM, registered a seismic intensity of 4 on Japan's scale of 7 in certain areas of Iwate and Miyagi prefectures.
As per the agency's report, a tsunami wave of 10 centimeters was detected in Ofunato, while a minor tsunami was recorded in Miyako.
In response to the tsunami advisory, the Tohoku Shinkansen service between Sendai and Shin-Aomori has resumed operations after a brief stoppage, as confirmed by its operator, JR East.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi issued a statement on X, advising residents to evacuate coastal areas. She emphasized the need to stay vigilant, as aftershocks could occur and any subsequent tsunami waves might be larger than anticipated.
"At around 17:03, an earthquake with its epicenter off the Sanriku coast occurred. A seismic intensity of 4 was reported in Iwate and Miyagi Prefectures. An emergency liaison room has been established at the Prime Minister's Office. Please evacuate immediately from coastal zones. The tsunami that may follow could be more severe than expected, so remain alert for updates. Please also be cautious of potential aftershocks," Takaichi shared on X.
Tohoku Electric Power confirmed that there were no issues at the Onagawa nuclear power facility in Miyagi Prefecture, according to local media.
During a news briefing on Sunday, a representative from the Meteorological Agency indicated that earthquakes of equal or greater intensity could happen in the upcoming days, as reported by The Japan Times. The official advised against approaching the sea or shorelines in regions affected by the tsunami warning.