Japan issues tsunami alerts after powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has urged residents to evacuate after a powerful earthquake struck off the country’s northeastern coast, triggering tsunami warnings.
"An earthquake occurred with its epicentre off the coast of Sanriku, and strong shaking with a maximum seismic intensity of lower five was observed in Aomori Prefecture," she said. "To everyone in the areas under tsunami warnings, please evacuate immediately to higher ground or to safe locations such as evacuation buildings."
Takaichi reported that “human and material damage is still being confirmed”, adding that “detailed reports” will be received and announced later.
The earthquake, measured at magnitude 7.4, occurred at 4:53 pm local time (07:53 GMT) on Monday, with its epicentre off the Sanriku coastal region of Honshu island.
The quake affected Aomori and Iwate prefectures, while seismic activity was also felt in Tokyo. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued tsunami warnings, stating that waves of up to three metres (10 feet) were possible.
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