6.9 Magnitude Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Advisory in Japan’s Iwate Prefecture

YAMADA, Japan — A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 struck off the coast of Yamada, Iwate Prefecture, on Sunday evening, triggering a tsunami advisory for parts of the northeastern coastline. The earthquake hit at 5:03 p.m. Japan time at a depth of about 10 miles (16 kilometers) beneath the sea surface.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the quake’s epicenter was located approximately 78 miles (125 kilometers) east of Yamada. The agency initially recorded the quake at a magnitude of 6.7 before upgrading it to 6.9. Public broadcaster NHK advised residents to stay away from coastal areas due to the tsunami risks.

In its advisory, the JMA warned of possible tsunami waves reaching up to 3 feet (1 meter). Residents in coastal areas began evacuating to higher ground as a precaution. Small tsunami waves of around 8 inches (20 centimeters) were observed at monitoring stations in Ofunato Port and Kuji Port shortly after the quake.

As of 8:30 p.m., the tsunami advisory was lifted, but authorities noted that aftershocks continued to shake the region. Nine additional aftershocks were reported, including one that measured 6.3. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or significant damage.

Rail services on the Tohoku Shinkansen experienced delays due to brief power outages, and local governments initiated inspections of roads, bridges, and coastal facilities. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged the public to remain vigilant for aftershocks.

Authorities reminded residents to prepare for further seismic activity in the days to come, noting that northeastern Japan is prone to earthquakes. The JMA emphasized that although this earthquake was notable, the risk for significant quakes in the region remains ongoing.