A powerful earthquake measuring 7.5 magnitude struck northern Japan on the night of March 11, 2024, resulting in dozens of injuries and the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. The quake occurred at 23:15 local time (14:15 GMT) at a depth of 50 kilometers, approximately 80 kilometers off the coast of Aomori. Following the initial tremor, tsunami alerts were issued, predicting wave heights of up to 70 centimeters, although these warnings were later lifted.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported at least 30 injuries as a result of the quake, while nearly 2,700 homes in Aomori were left without electricity. In response to the seismic event, train services along the northeastern coast were suspended as safety assessments were conducted. Government officials have warned residents to remain vigilant, anticipating strong aftershocks in the coming days.
Government Response and Evacuations
In the wake of the disaster, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged citizens in affected areas to review their emergency preparedness plans. “Reconfirm your daily earthquake preparedness and be ready to evacuate immediately if you feel shaking,” she emphasized. Local officials ordered approximately 90,000 residents to evacuate as a precautionary measure.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced the activation of a government emergency team to coordinate rescue and relief efforts. Fortunately, Japan’s energy operator, Tohoku Electric Power, reported no abnormalities at the Higashidori or Onagawa nuclear plants. Authorities also confirmed that there were no issues at the Fukushima Daiichi site, which had been severely damaged during the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami in 2011.
Seismic Activity and Future Risks
Japan, situated along the active Ring of Fire, experiences around 1,500 earthquakes annually. Experts have consistently warned about the increasing likelihood of a significant quake in the Nankai Trough, estimating a 60–90% chance of such an event occurring within the next 30 years. This potential quake could lead to extensive damage and mass casualties, highlighting the need for ongoing preparedness in the region.
As the situation unfolds, authorities continue to monitor seismic activity closely while providing support to those impacted by the earthquake.
