Overview
- Japan’s meteorological agency reported a magnitude 7.6 offshore quake near Aomori, while other seismic centers gave preliminary readings between 7.2 and 7.5.
- The epicenter was about 80 kilometers off Aomori at an estimated depth of 50 kilometers, according to official data.
- Tsunami alerts were issued for Hokkaido, Aomori and Iwate, and evacuations were ordered in several coastal towns.
- NHK reported that the prime minister’s office activated a crisis team as officials cautioned residents to move away from the coast.
- A magnitude 5.7 aftershock followed shortly after the main shock, with reports of strong shaking but no immediate confirmation of major damage.