Earthquake of magnitude 7.6 strikes Japan, tsunami warning issued

NEW DELHI: A significant 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck north central Japan on Monday, as reported by public broadcaster NHK. In response, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued tsunami warnings for the western coastal areas.
Here’s what we know so far-
Central Japan rocked by powerful quake
Central Japan was struck by a massive 7.6 magnitude earthquake on Monday, leading to tsunami warnings and urgent evacuation advisories. The quake, which has shaken the region, has raised concerns of potential large waves along the Sea of Japan.
Tsunami hits, larger waves expected
Public broadcaster NHK reported that a tsunami approximately 1 meter high has already hit parts of the coast, with expectations of larger waves to follow.
The Japan Meteorological Agency, responding to the threat, has issued tsunami warnings for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama, urging residents to stay alert and prepared for possible evacuation.
5-metre tsunami waves may hit coastal areas
The potential for significant waves extends along 300 kilometers of the north coast of central Japan, with agencies warning of hazardous tsunami waves reaching up to five meters.
These warnings come from both the Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and the Japan Meteorological Agency, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Power outage
In the wake of the earthquake, Hokuriku Electric Power Company reported more than 36,000 houses experiencing power outages.
Monitoring nuclear facilities
The company, along with Kansai Electric Power, is closely monitoring the situation, particularly concerning nuclear facilities.
Hokuriku Electric Power has confirmed that it is checking for any irregularities at its nuclear plants, and, reassuringly, the Nuclear Regulation Authority has reported no irregularities at the Shika Nuclear Power Plant in Ishikawa Prefecture following the earthquake.
Comparisons to 2011 disaster
This seismic event is reminiscent of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck northeastern Japan on March 11, 2011, leading to widespread destruction and nuclear meltdowns in Fukushima. The memory of that disaster is still fresh in the minds of many, adding to the urgency and caution in the current response.
Ongoing monitoring and safety measures
As the situation develops, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to any safety instructions issued by authorities. Further updates are expected as agencies continue to assess the situation and respond to the unfolding events.
More details are awaited.
(With inputs from agencies)

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