7.5-magnitude earthquake hits Japan, tsunami warning issued

Tokyo: Japan on Monday issued an advisory for its northern coastal regions, warning of an increased risk of a possible mega-quake. The notice follows a powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Sanriku at 4.53pm. The Cabinet Office and the Japan Meteorological Agency noted a 1% probability of a mega-quake occurring within the next week.

While the advisory is not a specific prediction, officials urged the public to ensure emergency food and grab bags are ready. Earlier on Monday, the quake triggered a tsunami alert, prompting residents to flee to higher ground. A wave of 80 centimetres was detected at Kuji port in Iwate prefecture. The US-based Pa­cific Tsunami Warning Centre later confirmed the tsunami threat has passed, though local authorities cautioned against aftershocks. Evacua­tion advisories were issued to over 1,28,000 residents across four prefectures. —AP