Strong 7.6-magnitude quake hits northern Japan, triggers tsunami; leaves several injured

The quake was centered just east of Aomori Prefecture—Honshu’s northernmost region—and near the southern waters of Hokkaido.

Tsunami waves measuring about 40 centimeters were recorded in the town of Urakawa in Hokkaido as well as the port area of Mutsu Ogawara in Aomori, the agency said.

Local media reported early signs of damage. Public broadcaster NHK said several people sustained injuries at a hotel in Hachinohe, a coastal town in Aomori Prefecture.

Emergency responders are assessing the situation.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that the government swiftly activated an emergency task force to gather information and coordinate response efforts.

“We are putting people’s lives first and doing everything possible to ensure their safety,” she told reporters in a brief statement.

Nuclear facilities in the region initiated precautionary safety inspections following the quake, though no abnormalities had been reported as of early updates, NHK added.

Authorities have urged residents in coastal areas to remain cautious as aftershocks are likely.