A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off northern Japan late Monday, injuring 23 people and triggering a 70-centimeter (2-foot) tsunami along parts of the Pacific coast. The quake occurred around 11:15 p.m., about 80 km off Aomori, shaking towns across the region and prompting immediate tsunami alerts. Most injuries resulted from falling objects, while minor damage was reported in hotels, roads, and homes.

 

Authorities temporarily suspended Shinkansen services, and about 800 homes lost power. At the Rokkasho nuclear facility, around 450 liters of cooling water spilled, but regulators reported no safety risks. Nearly 500 residents evacuated to shelters as defense helicopters surveyed the damage.

 

Officials warned of possible aftershocks and a slightly increased risk of a larger quake along the northeastern coast. By early Tuesday, all tsunami advisories were lifted, though residents were urged to remain alert and prepared for further tremors.