Tsunami Warning Issued After 7.6-Magnitude Earthquake Off Japan’s Northeastern Coast

A major earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan Monday, prompting immediate tsunami warnings along parts of the shoreline. According to Japan’s Meteorological Agency, the magnitude-7.6 quake hit just after 11 p.m. local time, causing fast-moving alerts across multiple coastal prefectures.

The United States Geological Survey reported the quake’s epicenter as approximately 44 miles offshore at a depth of around 33 miles. Early measurements show a 16-inch tsunami wave already impacting coastal areas in Aomori.

Officials warn waves could reach nearly 10 feet in parts of Iwate, Aomori, and Hokkaido as the situation continues to develop. Authorities are urging residents near the coastline to move to higher ground and stay away from the water until further instructions are issued.

A CNN news team in Tokyo reported strong shaking lasting more than 30 seconds, felt hundreds of miles from the quake center.

This remains a developing emergency, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.