A 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Japan at 11:44 AM local time (02:44 AM GMT) today, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
The earthquake occurred off the eastern coast of Aomori prefecture, at a depth of 20 kilometers, followed by several aftershocks ranging in magnitude from 4.3 to 5.7.
Japanese authorities issued a tsunami warning for the eastern coast of the country, indicating that wave heights could reach one meter. Waves measuring 20 centimeters were recorded in Aomori and Hokkaido prefectures. The warning was lifted after several hours. According to the emergency alert app NERV, evacuation orders were issued for thousands of people in affected areas.
This earthquake comes just two days after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit the same region last Monday, injuring dozens of residents. Japanese authorities have warned about the potential for a major earthquake anticipated in the country for years.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi noted that the recent earthquake did not fall within the previous warnings concerning the major earthquake.
Japan had previously announced a 60-90% probability of a major earthquake occurring in the Nankai Trough over the next 30 years, which could lead to a tsunami exceeding 20 meters in height, with forecasts of hundreds of thousands of casualties and significant economic losses.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has ended the tsunami warning after assessing the situation while authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and take preventive measures to ensure the safety of residents.
