A powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Hokkaido region of northern Japan on Monday evening. Immediately following the quake, authorities issued a tsunami warning for coastal residents. According to preliminary information, the quake struck at 7:45 p.m. (local time) on December 8th. The USGS reported that the quake originated at a depth of 32 miles. Its epicenter was located near the coast of Hokkaido at 41°N latitude and 142.3°E longitude.
Previously, a major earthquake struck northern Japan on November 9th, prompting a brief tsunami warning for coastal areas, which was later lifted. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake struck near Iwate Prefecture at 5:03 p.m. and initially measured at 6.9 magnitude. The quake struck at a depth of about 20 kilometers (12 miles). Several smaller aftershocks were felt afterward.
There were no reports of damage, distress, or injuries at the nearby nuclear power plant. A tsunami warning was issued for parts of the northern coastline. Waves were estimated to be up to 1 meter (3 feet) high. However, subsequent waves of only 10–20 centimeters (4–8 inches) were recorded in Ofunato, Miyako, Kamaishi, Ominato, and Kuji.
The warning was lifted about three hours later. However, officials warned people to remain vigilant, as strong tremors are expected for several days. Further minor tremors were felt in the Iwate and Hokkaido regions. Japan lies on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” which is why it experiences the most earthquakes in the world.