Japan on high alert after 7.7 magnitude earthquake triggers tsunami warning

A 7.7 magnitude undersea earthquake struck off Japan's northeast coast near Iwate prefecture on April 20, prompting tsunami warnings and evacuation orders.

The quake occurred at a depth of 10km and was felt as far as Tokyo, approximately 530km away.

Tsunami waves measuring up to 80cm were recorded along parts of Japan's east coast, with warnings issued for waves potentially reaching 3 meters.

Thousands of residents in coastal and riverside areas were instructed to evacuate to higher ground or designated shelters.

Japan's Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami warning at the second-highest alert level, advising that waves could hit repeatedly.

The agency also warned of an increased risk of a stronger earthquake, possibly magnitude 8.0 or higher, within the next week.

No immediate reports of major damage or serious injuries have been confirmed.

However, disruptions included halted bullet train services, motorway closures, and power outages affecting around 100 homes.

Local authorities in Hokkaido continued to maintain tsunami alerts hours after the quake.

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