Following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake off the northeastern coast of Japan, authorities have warned of an increased risk of a “mega-earthquake” over the coming week.
“Elchi” reports that after the earthquake, which was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers off the coast of Iwate Prefecture, approximately 170,000 people living in coastal areas were ordered to evacuate to higher ground due to tsunami waves predicted to reach 3 meters.
The highest tsunami wave measured after the earthquake, which was also felt in the capital Tokyo, was recorded at 80 centimeters. Tsunami warnings were completely lifted a few hours after the earthquake, near midnight.
Experts warn of “8.0 and higher”
Despite the lifting of tsunami warnings, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) announced that the risk in the region persists. The statement noted that new earthquakes are expected over the coming week that could “trigger stronger earthquakes” and create larger waves.
Officials emphasized that the probability of an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.0 or higher occurring in the region is “relatively higher” than normal.
Şayəstə