Powerful Earthquake Strikes Northern Japan, Tsunami Alerts Issued

Tokyo, Japan — A strong offshore earthquake shook northern Japan on Monday night, prompting authorities to issue tsunami alerts for several coastal regions and urging residents to move to higher ground.

According to preliminary data from Japan’s Meteorological Agency (JMA), the quake struck off the coast of Aomori Prefecture late in the evening. The shaking was felt widely across northern Honshu, causing buildings to sway and briefly disrupting public transportation systems.

Local officials confirmed that evacuation orders were issued for low-lying coastal districts, where waves of varying heights were anticipated. Emergency response teams were deployed immediately to assess damage, support evacuations, and monitor the coastline for any change in sea level.

Although early reports indicated limited structural damage, authorities warned residents to remain alert, as aftershocks were expected throughout the night. Power companies also reported conducting precautionary safety checks at regional facilities.

Japan, located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is one of the world’s most seismically active regions. The country regularly experiences earthquakes of moderate to strong magnitude, and strict building codes—as well as public readiness—help reduce casualties during such events.

Officials emphasized that safety remains the top priority and urged the public to follow instructions issued through official channels. Emergency shelters across the affected prefectures were opened as a precaution.

Further assessments and updates were expected as authorities continued monitoring the situation.