Strong earthquake shakes Japan and triggers tsunami warnings
Seismology in Japan: A strong earthquake was recorded
The center of the Japanese archipelago was hit by a powerful earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 7.5. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the seismic event on Monday, January 1. As a result, Japan installed tsunami warning systems. The hardest hit area was Ishikawa Prefecture, near the epicenter of this tectonic shock. The map released by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) shows the extent and exact location of the emergency. Even the capital Tokyo felt the seismic waves, as reported by a journalist from Radio France. The JMA also recorded a total of 21 smaller earthquakes, all greater than magnitude 4.
Devastating tsunami potential: North coast warning
Dangerously high waves, up to five meters high, can be expected off the north coast of central Japan, according to joint forecasts from Japanese and US seismic authorities. Wajima, a port city on the Noto Peninsula, has already recorded waves 1.2 meters high, according to the JMA.
Move residents to safer locations
Government warnings are widely publicized in the media, encouraging people to immediately move to higher ground. The precautionary instructions from broadcaster NHK are clear: prioritize the safety of human lives over material goods.
Immediate consequences of the earthquake: power cuts and road closures
- According to energy companies, around 33,500 homes are currently without electricity.
- According to authorities, to date there have been no serious disruptions to nuclear infrastructure, including the Shika nuclear power plant.
- By order of Japanese transport services, roads near the epicenter were closed to traffic.
