A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck Japan on Monday, triggering a tsunami that hit the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. The first wave, measuring 1.2 meters, arrived in Wajima City shortly after the earthquake. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) is anticipating a much larger tsunami, up to five meters high, to hit the same area later. Residents in coastal areas have been urged to evacuate to higher ground.
The earthquake struck at 2:59 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located off the coast of Noto Peninsula. The tremor was felt strongly in Ishikawa Prefecture and neighboring prefectures. There are no immediate reports of injuries or damage, but the situation is still developing.
The JMA has issued a tsunami warning for the Noto Peninsula, as well as for parts of Fukui and Niigata prefectures. Residents in these areas are advised to evacuate to higher ground immediately.
The earthquake is a reminder of the vulnerability of Japan to natural disasters. The country is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone of intense seismic and volcanic activity. In 2011, Japan was hit by a magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami that killed nearly 20,000 people and caused widespread devastation.
The current situation is still unfolding, and I will continue to update you as more information becomes available.
