Strong quake shakes Japan's northern coast, tsunami warning lifted
A magnitude‑6.2 earthquake struck the northern coast of Japan on Sunday evening, shaking the region and prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami advisory for several coastal municipalities. The tremor was felt widely across the prefecture, causing minor damage to structures and brief interruptions to transportation services.
According to the agency, the initial shock was followed by a series of aftershocks, the strongest of which reached magnitude 5.0. After a brief period of assessment, officials lifted the tsunami advisory later that night, stating that sea‑level measurements showed no abnormal rise and that the risk to coastal communities had subsided.
Local authorities activated emergency response protocols immediately after the quake, deploying rescue teams to inspect critical infrastructure such as bridges, power lines, and railways. Preliminary reports indicated that a small number of homes sustained minor structural damage, but there were no confirmed injuries or casualties. Public transportation in the affected area experienced temporary suspensions, with trains and buses resuming service after safety checks were completed.
Experts noted that the region lies near a tectonic plate boundary known for frequent seismic activity, and emphasized the importance of regular drills and robust building standards. "The prompt issuance and subsequent cancellation of the tsunami advisory demonstrate the effectiveness of the monitoring system," a spokesperson from the national disaster management agency said. Analysts also highlighted that the rapid response helped minimize disruption and prevented panic among residents.
While the immediate threat has passed, officials continue to monitor aftershocks and have urged citizens to remain vigilant. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that additional tremors could occur over the coming days, and advised people to follow local guidance regarding evacuation routes and emergency shelters if needed. The incident underscores the ongoing challenge of earthquake preparedness in a seismically active region.
