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Japan Faces Tsunami Alert After Powerful 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake

KVIA•Monday, April 20, 2026 at 8:45 AM•CNN Newsource

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A significant earthquake measuring 7.4 struck off the northeastern coast of Japan, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami warning for waves up to three meters in Iwate and parts of Hokkaido and Aomori. The quake occurred at 8:52 a.m. local time, with authorities evacuating nearly 172,000 residents across five prefectures. Although initial tsunami waves were lower than anticipated, with a maximum of 0.8 meters recorded, officials are still assessing potential damage and have reported 200 power outages in affected areas. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged immediate evacuations to higher ground and emphasized the government's commitment to disaster response and public safety.

Key Details: • Tsunami warning issued for Iwate, Hokkaido, and Aomori prefectures. • Evacuations ordered for 171,957 residents across five prefectures. • Initial tsunami waves recorded at 0.8 meters in Kuji and 0.4 meters in Miyako. • 200 power outages reported; restoration efforts are underway. • Prime Minister Takaichi advises immediate evacuation to safer areas.

japan earthquake tsunami evacuation disaster-response

People & Organizations

Sanae TakaichiTokyoHokkaidoAomoriMinoru KiharaIwateFukushima DaiichiJapan Meteorological AgencyTokyo Electric Power CompanyNHK

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