Japan Hit by Major Quake — Sanae Takaichi Urges Public to Heed Aftershock Alerts | WPN World People News

A powerful magnitude-7.5 earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture late on the night of the 8th, with a maximum seismic intensity of upper 6 and a shallow depth, affecting Aomori, Hokkaido, Iwate, and surrounding regions.

So far, at least 50 people have been reported injured—mostly minor injuries—and no fatalities have been confirmed. A tsunami warning was issued shortly after the quake, and a wave of up to 70 centimeters was observed at Kuji Port in Iwate Prefecture. All tsunami warnings have since been lifted. Sporadic fires, road collapses, and brief power outages were reported, and Shinkansen services were temporarily suspended.

Japan’s Meteorological Agency issued, for the first time, a “Major Aftershock Advisory” for earthquakes off Hokkaido and Sanriku, warning that there is a high likelihood of a magnitude 6 or stronger quake—and even the possibility of a magnitude 8 event—within the next week.

Disaster-preparedness measures have been fully activated across the Tohoku region, including the opening of autonomous evacuation shelters staffed around the clock. Residents are being urged to remain on high alert and ready to evacuate at any time.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called on residents in affected areas to maintain maximum vigilance. She emphasized that the government has established an emergency response team and will prioritize the safety of the public above all else. Takaichi stressed: “Please stay tuned to information from your local authorities. If you feel any shaking, take immediate action to evacuate.”