Japan on High Alert After Powerful Earthquake

Japan is on high alert for a potential second earthquake after a 7.7 magnitude quake struck off its north-east coast, triggering tsunami warnings and evacuations. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of an increased risk of a 'huge' earthquake in the next week, with a higher likelihood of a quake measuring 8.0 magnitude or higher. Thousands were evacuated, and while there were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries, the country remains cautious due to memories of the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 struck off Japan's northern coast, prompting a tsunami alert for a wide section of coastline. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued the alert, which was later downgraded as waves of only about three feet were observed. The U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said the tsunami threat had passed. The government issued an advisory for northern coastal areas of an increased risk of a possible mega-quake induced by the Monday temblor, with a 1% chance of occurrence in the next week. The earthquake occurred 15 years after the devastating 2011 Fukushima earthquake and tsunami disaster.

A 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck off the northern coast of Japan on Monday afternoon, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami alert in the area. The quake occurred off the coast of Sanriku in northern Japan at around 4:53 p.m. local time, at a depth of about 10 miles below the sea surface. NHK public television reported that a tsunami of up to 10 feet could impact the region soon. The article is a breaking news story and will be updated.