Japan Issues Tsunami Alert After 6.8-Magnitude Earthquake
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck off the coast of Japan’s Iwate prefecture on Sunday, leading to a tsunami advisory, as reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred at approximately 5:03 pm local time in the North Pacific Ocean, at a depth of about 30 kilometers, according to data from the Japan Meteorological Agency and India’s National Center for Seismology (NCS).
Tsunami Warning and Expected Waves
Authorities issued a tsunami warning for the Iwate coastline, warning that waves up to one meter high might reach the shore. The national broadcaster NHK confirmed minor offshore tsunami waves and advised residents to stay away from coastal zones, although live footage showed calm sea conditions.
“The memory of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, one of Japan’s worst disasters that killed or left missing about 18,500 people and triggered the Fukushima nuclear crisis, continues to loom large.”
Impact and Historical Context
- The 2011 event remains a stark reminder of the risk posed by such natural disasters in the region.
- The current quake depth of 30 km is typical for oceanic seismic activity near Japan.
- Residents have been advised to remain alert and follow safety protocols.
How Tokyo’s Skyscrapers Withstand Earthquakes
Tokyo’s high-rise buildings are designed with advanced engineering to endure strong seismic events, using flexible foundations and shock absorbers to minimize damage and protect occupants.
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