Japan warns of second tsunami after revised 7.7 magnitude earthquake

Tokyo, Japan. Japanese officials warned that a second tsunami may be approaching the country’s northeast coast after a powerful earthquake, revised upward to magnitude 7.7. Tsunami warnings remain in place for the Iwate and Hokkaido prefectures, according to the BBC.

Earthquake revision and tsunami warnings

The Japan Meteorological Agency initially reported the earthquake as magnitude 7.5 but later updated it to 7.7. The agency also revised the depth estimate to 19 km from an initial 10 km.

Evacuations and wave forecasts

Evacuation orders are in effect, with the government urging residents to seek higher ground immediately. An initial 40 cm wave reached Miyako port in Iwate prefecture, while experts have forecast waves as tall as three metres for the region, and footage from Hokkaido has shown waves swelling near the shoreline.

Transport disruption and nuclear plant status

The earthquake caused widespread disruption to infrastructure, including the suspension of several bullet train services across affected areas. Nuclear plants in the region appeared to be operating normally, with no immediate reports of damage to facilities.

What preparations have local authorities asked you to follow during the ongoing tsunami warnings?