TOKYO — A significant 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of northern Japan on Sunday evening (November 9), prompting meteorological authorities to issue a tsunami advisory for the region.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the tremor occurred at approximately 5:03 p.m. local time. The quake’s epicenter was located 10 kilometers beneath the seabed in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Iwate Prefecture. It registered a seismic intensity of 4 in several areas within the prefecture.
Following the initial shaking, the JMA warned of potential tsunami waves reaching up to one meter (three feet) along the northern coastline. Public broadcaster NHK urged residents to stay away from coastal areas due to the ongoing risk of rising water and potential aftershocks.
Small tsunami waves have already been observed in the region. According to reports, waves reaching 20 centimeters were recorded in Kuji, while smaller 10-centimeter swells were detected at Ofunato port and Ominato.
While there were no immediate reports of significant injuries or major structural damage, the shaking disrupted some local infrastructure. JR East reported temporary delays to bullet train services, and Kyodo News noted localized power outages in the aftermath. Officials confirmed that no abnormalities were reported at the two nuclear power plants operating in the affected vicinity.
Japan frequently experiences seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” This northern region is particularly sensitive, as it was the area heavily impacted by the devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 2011.
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