Japan on High Alert for Potential Megaquake Following Recent Tremors

Japan braces for a potential megaquake after a 7.5 magnitude tremor rattled northern regions. Authorities have issued alerts, suggesting readiness for possible tsunamis along the Pacific coast. The quake prompted tsunami warnings, disrupted transport, and resulted in injuries, while officials strategize on preventive measures and damage assessment.

Following a magnitude 7.5 earthquake in northern Japan, officials have issued alerts for a potential megaquake in the region, according to NHK Japan. This heightened alert, initiated by the Japan Meteorological Agency, follows the December 8 tremor.

NHK Japan reports that a megaquake could trigger tsunamis along Japan's Pacific coast, spanning from Hokkaido to Chiba Prefecture. While evacuation recommendations have not been made, residents in these areas are urged to stay vigilant over the next week, marking the first alert of its kind since 2022.

The earthquake struck the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture at 11:15 p.m. on Monday, with its magnitude downgraded to 7.5 and depth adjusted to 54 kilometers. By 1:00 AM, six individuals in Aomori suffered injuries due to the quake.

Tsunami advisories for the northern Pacific coastline have been lifted. Initial warnings affected Iwate Prefecture and parts of Hokkaido and Aomori, with observed tsunami waves measuring up to 70 centimeters at Kuji Port in Iwate and lesser waves in Hokkaido and Aomori.

This event marks the first tsunami warning since July, when a powerful quake near Kamchatka, Russia, prompted a similar alert for Japan's Pacific areas.

The East Japan Railway Company suspended Tohoku Shinkansen services between Morioka and Shin-Aomori stations to assess potential track damage. Airlines resumed regular operations.

The Japanese government, led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, established a task force to monitor the situation and ensure effective communication and preparedness among residents and authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)