Japan’s Meteorological Agency has issued a caution to citizens, predicting seismic activity with an intensity of 7 over the next two to three days following a recent 7.6 magnitude earthquake that led to tsunamis hitting some coastal areas. The advisory specifically covers regions like Ishikawa, Niigata, Nagano, and Toyama prefectures. A tsunami height of 5 meters has been indicated for Ishikawa.
Tsunami Hits Shorelines, Earthquake, Prompts Evacuation Warnings
After the 7.6 magnitude quake, a 4-foot-high tsunami wave reached Wajima, situated approximately 300 km from Tokyo. The government is urging residents to seek higher ground and stay away from the coastline, emphasizing the potential danger of a 5-meter-high tsunami in Ishikawa. Damaged houses, power outages, and disruptions to bullet train services in central and eastern Japan have been reported.
Extent of Impact and Evacuation Measures
The earthquake has impacted residential areas, causing power losses in Ishikawa and Toyama prefectures. More than 36,000 households are without power, prompting evacuation advisories. While nuclear power plants in the region have not reported irregularities, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The assessment of damages continues, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida advises the public to prepare for potential aftershocks and earthquakes.
Japan Reminders of Past Tragedies and Fukushima Disaster
Japan’s history includes the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami, claiming over 20,000 lives and triggering a nuclear meltdown in the Fukushima plant. The recent earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the country’s vulnerability to seismic activity, necessitating ongoing vigilance and preparedness.