Japanese authorities evaluate widespread impacts following a 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck off the northeastern coast late Monday night. The quake injured at least 33 people and prompted urgent tsunami warnings across affected regions.
The earthquake hit around 11:15 p.m. local time near Aomori Prefecture. It originated 80 kilometers offshore at a depth of 50 kilometers. Tremors extended from Hokkaido to the Kinki region. As a result, residents experienced intense shaking that disrupted daily life.
Rescue teams confirmed 33 injuries, including one serious case. Falling objects caused the most harm during the event. Victims received treatment in hotels and homes throughout the Aomori and Tohoku areas. Fortunately, officials reported no fatalities.
Damage assessments reveal road collapses and structural issues in commercial sites like Hachinohe. Power outages left 2,700 households without electricity in Aomori. Water shortages affected 1,360 homes. Train operations halted along coastal lines, and schools closed for inspections. Over 10 aftershocks followed the main event, heightening concerns.
Tsunami alerts prompted evacuations for approximately 90,000 people. Waves reached up to 70 centimeters in coastal areas. Authorities lifted warnings by early morning. However, they issued the nation's first megaquake advisory, valid until December 16, urging vigilance for potential larger quakes.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi established an emergency task force. She called on citizens to prepare for further seismic activity. Nuclear facilities underwent thorough checks, revealing no abnormalities. Helicopters deployed to survey remote damages.