TOKYO: Japan’s northeast coastline was struck by tsunami waves early on Wednesday morning, following a colossal 8.8-magnitude earthquake that rocked off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. The seismic event has triggered immediate evacuations and widespread emergency alerts across Japan’s vulnerable coastal areas.
The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that waves reaching up to 50 centimetres in height had impacted Ishinomaki in Miyagi Prefecture, prompting urgent calls for residents to move to higher ground, including the prominent Mount Hiyoriyama.
Earlier reports indicated that the northern coast of Hokkaido saw waves of approximately 30 centimetres, which were strong enough to reportedly displace smaller structures. This initial impact raised considerable apprehension regarding the potential for larger, subsequent sea surges.
Across Japan’s entire Pacific seaboard, authorities have issued stringent tsunami warnings, pressing residents in low-lying regions to evacuate without delay. National broadcaster NHK has been continuously airing emergency announcements, accompanied by blaring sirens, showcasing visuals of residents swiftly relocating away from the coastal zones.
As of now, no significant damage or casualties have been reported within Japan. However, officials maintain a heightened state of alert, citing the persistent risk of further waves and potential aftershocks. The tsunami follows one of the most powerful earthquakes recorded globally in over a decade, which has instigated region-wide alerts across the Pacific, stretching to Alaska and Hawaii.
Japan’s disaster response teams are rigorously monitoring sea levels and urging coastal communities to remain well away from the shoreline until all tsunami warnings are officially lifted.
Read More: NISAR: A New Dawn in Indo-US Space Collaboration Lifts Off Today