Massive Earthquake Strikes Northern Japan Triggering Tsunami and Injuring 23 People

A powerful earthquake struck off the northern coast of Japan, resulting in injuries to 23 individuals and triggering a tsunami. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.5, occurred at approximately 11:15 PM local time, about 80 kilometers from Aomori Prefecture.

Impact and Casualties of the Earthquake

Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported that out of the 23 injured, one person was seriously hurt. Most injuries were due to falling objects during the quake. Residents across the region experienced significant alarm and chaos as they sought safety.

• Injuries: 23 individuals, including one serious case.
• Location: Off the coast of Aomori, Japan.
• Time of quake: 11:15 PM local time.

Tsunami Warnings and Evacuations

Following the earthquake, a tsunami of up to 70 centimeters was recorded at Kuji port in Iwate Prefecture. Areas nearby experienced tsunami surges of about 50 centimeters. The Japan Meteorological Agency had initially issued alerts predicting possible tsunami waves of up to 3 meters.

As a precaution, approximately 90,000 residents were ordered to evacuate to higher ground. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara urged the population to seek shelter until alerts were re-evaluated.

Electricity and Transport Disruptions

The quake caused significant disruptions, including:

• About 800 homes located without electricity.
• Suspension of Shinkansen bullet trains and some local rail services.
• Traffic jams reported as residents fled to safety.

Response and Assessment Efforts

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed that around 480 residents took refuge at the Hachinohe Air Base. Eighteen defense helicopters were deployed for damage assessments in the affected areas.

Authorities also reported that around 450 liters of water spilled from a cooling area at the Rokkasho fuel reprocessing plant, though it remained within safe levels. The Nuclear Regulation Authority stated there was no immediate risk to safety.

Precautions for Future Quakes

While the government lifted all tsunami advisories, they advised residents to stay vigilant for potential aftershocks. Satoshi Harada, from the meteorological agency, reminded the public of the devastating earthquake and tsunami in 2011, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for similar disasters.

As Japan continues to recover, officials are focused on ensuring safety and readiness for any future tectonic events.