A powerful earthquake struck Japan late Monday night, injuring at least 30 people and disrupting electricity in more than 2,000 homes, according to a BBC report.
The 7.5-magnitude quake hit at 11:15 p.m. local time. Its epicenter was located about 80 kilometers off the coast of Aomori in northern Honshu, originating 50 kilometers beneath the seabed. Because the quake occurred deep under the ocean floor, Japan’s Meteorological Agency initially issued a tsunami warning, which was later withdrawn.
However, geologists warned that additional earthquakes could follow in the coming days.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takachi urged citizens to remain alert. “Please stay extra cautious in the next few days. At the first sign of shaking, ensure you can immediately evacuate to safety. Also secure your valuables and household items to prevent damage,” she said in a televised address.
According to a Reuters report, nearly 70,000 residents from Aomori and nearby coastal areas were evacuated to safe shelters soon after the earthquake and tsunami alert.
Electricity infrastructure in Aomori suffered significant damage, leaving around 2,700 homes without power. Train services across northern and eastern Japan have also been suspended due to the blackout.
Japan’s Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told the BBC that multiple emergency response offices have already been set up in Aomori and other northern regions under the Prime Minister’s Office.
Japan, located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world, experiencing around 1,500 tremors annually.
