Japan Braces for Aftershocks After 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake

On Monday, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan, triggering tsunami warnings. Tsunami waves up to 3 metres were anticipated, though initial measurements detected waves as high as 80 cm, leading to an advisory downgrade by authorities.

Minoru Kihara, Japan's top government spokesperson, reported no immediate casualties or significant damage as the night settled over Tokyo. Evacuation orders swept across towns such as Otsuchi and Kamaishi, with bullet train services halted and motorways closed.

Amid heightened fear of a megaquake, officials noted an increased 1% probability of a magnitude 8 or greater quake occurring along the Japan Trench. Residents were urged to take anti-disaster measures seriously. Despite the severe tremors, no abnormalities were detected at idled nuclear plants, ensuring safety in an earthquake-prone region.