A powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan on Monday, prompting immediate tsunami warnings for coastal regions of Japan and Hawaii. The quake, which hit near the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, has already produced waves of up to 5 metres in some areas.
Evacuations Underway as First Waves Hit
Japanese authorities have issued urgent evacuation orders for residents in coastal areas, with NHK television repeatedly broadcasting warnings: "Evacuate immediately!" Early footage shows waves crashing over sea walls in Wajima City, where tsunami waves reached an alarming 1.2 metres shortly after the quake.
Hawaii on Alert
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has extended warnings to Hawaii, where waves between 1-3 metres are possible. "We're closely monitoring the situation," stated a spokesperson for Hawaii Emergency Management. "All coastal areas should remain vigilant through the night."
International Response
Neighbouring countries including South Korea and Russia have issued their own advisories. The UK Foreign Office has updated travel advice for Japan, urging citizens to "follow local authorities' instructions" and register with the LOCATE service.
Nuclear Plants Secure
Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed no abnormalities at nuclear facilities along the coast, including the Shika power plant near the epicentre. This comes just months after Japan began releasing treated water from the Fukushima plant, sparking regional tensions.
Meteorologists warn aftershocks could continue for days, with the Japan Meteorological Agency noting this may be the largest quake in the region since records began.
