Japan evaluates impact after 7.5 magnitude earthquake injures 34 people

Japan is currently assessing the impact of a strong 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck late Monday night. The quake has resulted in injuries to at least 34 people, with one person reported seriously hurt. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency indicates that most injuries were due to falling debris.

Emergency Response and Assessments

In response to the disaster, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the formation of an emergency task force. She emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing citizen safety. Takaichi assured the public that the government would put forth every effort to support affected communities.

The earthquake occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. local time, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Aomori, Japan’s northernmost prefecture. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at a magnitude of 7.6, occurring at a depth of 44 kilometers (27 miles). A tsunami warning was issued following the quake.

Tsunami Impact and Damage

The Japan Meteorological Agency reported a tsunami wave height reaching 70 centimeters (approximately 2 feet, 4 inches) at Kuji port. Additional waves of up to 50 centimeters affected other coastal areas, leading to the damage of oyster rafts. All tsunami advisories were lifted by 6:30 a.m. on Tuesday.

• 34 people injured, with one serious injury reported.
• Tsunami waves: 70 cm recorded at Kuji port.
• Damage primarily caused by falling objects.

Power and Transport Disruptions

According to the Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara, around 800 homes experienced power outages. Initially, Shinkansen bullet trains, alongside several local lines, were suspended in the wake of the disaster. Nonetheless, train services resumed later on Tuesday, and power was largely restored by the morning.

Approximately 480 individuals sought refuge at Hachinohe Air Base, while 18 defense helicopters were dispatched for damage inspection. Furthermore, about 200 passengers at New Chitose Airport were stranded overnight due to damage in part of the terminal.

Nuclear Safety and Future Cautions

In terms of nuclear safety, the Nuclear Regulation Authority reported a spillage of around 450 liters (118 gallons) from a cooling area at the Rokkasho fuel reprocessing plant. However, no safety concerns were identified, and no abnormalities were reported in other nearby nuclear facilities.

The Japan Meteorological Agency has cautioned about the potential for aftershocks in the days to come. They noted an increased risk of a magnitude 8-level earthquake along the northeastern coast, urging residents in 182 municipalities to review their emergency preparedness.

This recent earthquake serves as a reminder of Japan’s vulnerability to seismic events, recalling the devastating 2011 magnitude 9.0 quake which resulted in nearly 20,000 fatalities and severely impacted the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear facility. JMA official Satoshi Harada advised citizens to remain prepared for future disasters.