A significant earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 struck central Japan and its western coast, causing widespread disruption. The quake, which occurred on Monday, prompted tsunami warnings and evacuations in coastal areas, including Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama prefectures. Public broadcaster NHK reported waves of about 1 meter along parts of the Sea of Japan coast, with larger waves expected.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued tsunami warnings, echoed by Russia for its far eastern cities. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida urged residents to stay alert for further quakes and evacuate if in tsunami-prone areas. NHK footage showed the quake’s impact, including building collapses and power outages affecting over 36,000 households in Ishikawa and Toyama. High-speed rail services were suspended, and telecom disruptions reported. Airlines also adjusted their operations, with ANA turning back flights and Japan Airlines canceling services. The Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed no irregularities at nuclear plants along the Sea of Japan. This earthquake serves as a grim reminder of the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami that struck northeastern Japan.