Japanese authorities are conducting comprehensive damage assessments following a significant 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck the Pacific coastal region on Tuesday evening. The seismic event, which occurred approximately 80 kilometers off the coast of Aomori Prefecture at 11:15 pm local time, triggered tsunami advisories and caused multiple injuries throughout northern Japan.
According to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, at least 34 individuals sustained injuries, with one person reported in serious condition. Most injuries resulted from falling objects during the intense tremors. The quake’s impact was particularly visible in Mutsu, Aomori Prefecture, where Self-Defense Force personnel assisted in evacuating hospital patients after ruptured sprinkler systems flooded upper floors.
The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded tsunami waves reaching 70 centimeters at Kuji port in Iwate Prefecture, with several other coastal communities experiencing waves up to 50 centimeters. The tsunami advisory was lifted by 6:30 am Tuesday, though officials cautioned about potential aftershocks in the coming days.
Infrastructure damage included approximately 800 households experiencing temporary power outages, though Tohoku Electric Power Company reported most electricity had been restored by Tuesday morning. Transportation networks faced significant disruptions with suspended Shinkansen bullet trains and local rail services, while approximately 200 passengers were stranded overnight at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido due to ceiling damage in terminal buildings.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed the mobilization of 18 military helicopters for damage assessment operations, with about 480 residents taking shelter at Hachinohe Air Base. The Nuclear Regulation Authority reported minimal safety concerns at nuclear facilities, noting only 450 liters of water spilled from a spent fuel cooling area at the Rokkasho fuel reprocessing plant, with all systems maintaining normal operational levels.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi established an emergency task force, emphasizing the government’s commitment to prioritizing human safety and comprehensive response measures. Meteorological officials warned of increased seismic risks along Japan’s northeastern coast, noting slightly elevated possibilities of larger magnitude earthquakes in the region.