Iwate Prefecture warned of waves up to one metre as seismic activity rattles the Pacific.
🌊 The Quake and Immediate Advisory
A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Yamada, Japan, on Sunday evening, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor hit at around 5:03 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located roughly 78 miles east of Yamada at a depth of just over six miles. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) quickly issued a tsunami advisory for parts of the Iwate Prefecture, warning residents of potential waves reaching up to one metre (three feet).
📍 Regional Impact
The quake registered a 4 on Japan’s seismic intensity scale, strong enough to be felt across northern Honshu. National broadcaster NHK confirmed that small offshore tsunami waves had already been observed, though live feeds initially showed calm seas. Authorities urged residents to stay away from beaches and waterways, stressing that even minor waves can create dangerous currents.
⚠️ Context and Seismic Activity
Japan sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most seismically active regions. Between November 8 and 9, at least five earthquakes above magnitude 5.0 were recorded near Iwate, highlighting ongoing tectonic stress in the Japan Trench. The region remains highly sensitive to offshore quakes, scarred by memories of the 2011 Tohoku disaster, when a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and massive tsunami claimed nearly 18,500 lives.
🧭 Advisory for Residents
Authorities emphasized that while the current advisory is not a full tsunami warning, residents should:
- Avoid coastal areas until the advisory is lifted.
- Follow evacuation instructions if issued locally.
- Monitor updates from JMA and local broadcasters.
In summary: A 6.7 magnitude earthquake off Yamada has prompted a tsunami advisory for Iwate Prefecture, with waves of up to one metre possible. No damage or casualties have been reported so far, but officials warn residents to remain cautious as aftershocks and sea-level changes may follow.
Sources:
- Express – Tsunami warning issued after 6.7 magnitude earthquake off Japan Daily Express
- Firstpost – Japan issues tsunami alert after 6.7-magnitude earthquake Firstpost
- ABC News – Tsunami advisory issued as strong earthquake strikes off Japanese coast ABC News
- Metro – Tsunami alert for Japan after 6.7 magnitude earthquake Metro
- Japan News – Tsunami Advisory Issued in Iwate Prefecture The Japan News
