A magnitude 6.7 earthquake hit Japan’s northeastern coast on Friday, prompting a tsunami advisory for waves up to one metre high, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported. The quake struck at 11:44 a.m. local time (0244 GMT) off the coast of Aomori prefecture at a depth of 20 km (12 miles).
This recent tremor follows a larger magnitude 7.5 earthquake in the same region late on Monday. Authorities had already warned residents from Hokkaido to Chiba to stay alert for possible aftershocks or additional powerful quakes within the week.
The magnitude 6.7 earthquake has not caused immediate reports of casualties, but the JMA issued a precautionary tsunami advisory for northeastern Japan. Residents were urged to move to higher ground as a safety measure. Several ports reported minor tsunami waves ranging from 20 to 50 cm (7 to 18 inches) following the tremor.
Earlier, on December 8, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake shook the same region, prompting evacuations and tsunami warnings. The JMA had warned that waves as high as three metres (10 feet) could strike the northeast coast, affecting prefectures including Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate.
Seismologists have noted that the area remains highly active, and small to moderate aftershocks, including events like the magnitude 6.7 earthquake h, are likely in the coming days. Residents are advised to remain cautious and follow official instructions from local authorities.
The government has activated emergency response teams and urged communities to stay vigilant. Officials continue monitoring the region for any damage or further seismic activity.
Japan’s northeast region, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences earthquakes, and authorities emphasize preparedness, especially after a series of strong tremors in a short period.
In other news read more about: 5.9-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Eastern Türkiye
