Massive 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Japan
Tsunami Warnings Issued, Residents Urged to Evacuate
A major earthquake has struck western Japan triggering tsunami alerts and causing widespread panic. The earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.5 and was centered off the coast of Ishikawa Prefecture. Tsunami warnings have been issued for coastal areas along the Sea of Japan, with residents being urged to evacuate immediately to higher ground.
The earthquake occurred at 11:41 p.m. local time and was followed by several strong aftershocks. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued a tsunami warning for the entire Sea of Japan coast, including the prefectures of Ishikawa, Fukui, and Toyama. Tsunami warnings have also been issued for Miyagi, Akita, Niigata, and Yamagata prefectures.
The JMA is urging residents in coastal areas to evacuate immediately to higher ground and to stay away from the coast until the tsunami warning is lifted. The agency also warns that the tsunami may reach the coast within minutes and could cause widespread damage.
No casualties have been reported so far but there are reports of injuries. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed but it is expected to be significant. Buildings have been damaged, roads have been cracked, and power outages have been reported in several areas.
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