Central Japan Experiences 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake, Tsunami Alert Issued

A substantial seismic event measuring 7.5 in magnitude jolted central Japan on Monday, prompting a tsunami alert along the nation’s western coastline, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor’s intensity reached 7 on the Japanese scale, graded from zero to seven, specifically on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, according to NHK.

The earthquake, which occurred at 4:10 pm local time, originated 42 km northeast of Anamizu, Japan, with a reported depth of 10 km, as confirmed by the USGS. The seismic activity reverberated through central Tokyo, causing noticeable building tremors.

Notably, Toyama Prefecture experienced 80 cm waves around 4:35 pm, while Kashiwazaki in Niigata Prefecture encountered waves towering at 40 meters at 4:36 pm. Additionally, Niigata’s Sado Island felt the impact at 4:10 pm.

A tsunami warning was swiftly issued, urging residents to evacuate coastal areas in Ishikawa, Niigata, Toyama, and Yamagata prefectures. NHK reported waves exceeding 1.2 meters at the Noto Peninsula’s Wajima Port in Ishikawa.

Warnings were extended to Niigata, Toyama, Yamagata, Fukui, and Hyogo prefectures along the Japan Sea Coast, according to NHK. An assessment of damages resulting from the earthquake is currently awaited.

In response to the urgent situation, the Japan Prime Minister’s Office issued directives, emphasizing the importance of providing timely and accurate information to the public concerning the tsunami and evacuation measures. Officials were instructed to assess damage promptly and collaborate closely with local governments, prioritizing human life in all responses.

The Prime Minister’s Office underscored the necessity of exhaustive efforts in emergency disaster responses, encompassing the rescue of victims and saving lives, with a unified government approach.