This week, Japan is facing tense moments. A powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck its northern coast, damaging buildings and triggering small tsunamis. The rare “megaquake advisory” now in place warns that a stronger quake could follow, keeping the region on high alert. Keep reading for more details!
Earthquake In Japan
On December 8, just before midnight, a strong 7.5 earthquake hit off the Pacific coast of Aomori at a depth of about 54 km. According to India Today, it triggered small tsunamis between 60 and 70 cm and caused injuries to more than 50 people. Roads cracked, buildings were damaged, and around 90,000 residents moved to evacuation centres. The shaking was powerful enough to be felt even in Tokyo, nearly 550 km away.
Since the recent earthquake, Japan has felt several aftershocks. It includes a 5.7 quake off the east coast of Honshu and a 4.9 quake near Hokkaido. Smaller tremors, with magnitudes around 3, were also reported in nearby areas. Officials say these aftershocks are normal and that more could happen in the coming days.
Also Read: Japan Hit By 6.8 Magnitude Earthquake; Issues Tsunami Warning For Iwate Prefecture
Megaquake Advisory Issued
Under rules introduced in 2022, Japan’s Meteorological Agency issues a megaquake advisory when a magnitude 7 or stronger quake strikes areas known for giant earthquakes along the Japan and Kuril Trenches. Since Monday’s quake happened in one of these high-risk zones, the agency has already issued this megaquake advisory. Scientists say this means the chance of a much larger magnitude 8 or above quake in the next week is higher than usual—about 1%, still low but serious enough to monitor, reported India Today.
As per The Independent, the advisory now covers a long stretch of about 1,300 km, starting from Chiba, east of Tokyo, up to Hokkaido in the north. Many schools in prefectures like Aomori and Hokkaido stayed closed on Tuesday. They reopened on Wednesday with safety drills and quick-evacuation briefings. Students have been asked to stay ready to evacuate at any time throughout the week.
We hope the situation in Japan gets under control soon.
Also Read: 5.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Bangladesh, Strong Tremors Felt In Kolkata &Nearby Areas
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