Tokyo: Japan began the New Year on a scary note as a massive 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit Ishikawa and nearby prefectures on Monday. A Tsunami warning has been declared for Ishikawa, accompanied by lower-level advisories for the northwestern coast of Honshu.
Following the seismic event in the Noto region of Ishikawa prefecture at approximately 4:10 pm local time (07:10 GMT), public broadcaster NHK urgently broadcasted, “All residents must promptly move to higher ground.”
The earthquake and subsequent warnings have stirred concerns and prompted immediate responses to ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.
Massive waves of up to 5 metres high are believed to be reaching Noto in Ishikawa Prefecture, according to the weather agency.
Waves more than 1 metre high hit the coast of Wajima City in Ishikawa Prefecture, NHK reported.
No casualties have been reported so far by local authorities.
