Key Takeaways
- Magnitude 6.7 earthquake triggers tsunami warning in Japan’s northern Pacific region
- Japan Meteorological Agency warns of potential 1-meter waves along Iwate coast
- Small tsunami waves already observed following the quake
A significant earthquake measuring 6.7 magnitude struck Japan’s northern Pacific waters on Sunday, prompting immediate tsunami warnings along coastal areas. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued urgent advisories as tremors hit off Iwate at approximately 5:03 pm local time.
Tsunami Threat Assessment
The meteorological agency confirmed potential tsunami waves reaching up to one meter (three feet) in height. Shortly after the initial advisory, officials reported observing small tsunami waves in offshore areas. “A tsunami advisory has been issued,” the JMA stated in an official bulletin, emphasizing that waves could strike the Iwate coastline at any moment.
International Measurements
The US Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at magnitude 6.8, slightly higher than Japanese measurements. National broadcaster NHK echoed official warnings, urging residents to avoid coastal regions entirely as the situation developed.
Initial Wave Impacts
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the first tsunami reached Miyako, Iwate at 5:37 pm, though it was too small to measure accurately. Just two minutes later, a 10-centimeter (less than four inches) wave was confirmed at Ofunato.
More details to follow as this developing story continues.
