A tsunami advisory covered a wide stretch of Japan’s Pacific coast on Monday afternoon after a powerful earthquake struck the Philippines, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. Small tsunami waves already hit parts of Okinawa and the Ogasawara Islands, prompting officials to urge residents to stay away from shorelines. The agency warned that the tsunami advisory could remain in effect for several hours as additional waves arrive.
The agency confirmed that a minor tsunami reached Nakagusuku Port in Okinawa City at 12:18 p.m. local time. Consequently, a 10-centimeter tsunami then arrived at the Ogasawara Islands at 1:06 p.m. Moreover, the earthquake generated the tsunami from a source region near the Philippines. Officials did not immediately release details about the exact magnitude and depth of the quake, but the generated waves traveled quickly toward Japan’s southern and eastern coasts.
The tsunami advisory extends from Ibaraki Prefecture in the north all the way to Okinawa Prefecture in the south. In addition, the agency expects waves of up to 1 meter to arrive as early as this afternoon. Therefore, authorities have urged coastal residents and beachgoers to evacuate low-lying areas immediately. Furthermore, the JMA cautioned that even small tsunamis can produce dangerous currents and flooding. As a result, people should avoid the coast until officials lift the tsunami advisory.
Emergency services in affected prefectures began broadcasting warnings through loudspeakers and mobile alerts. Meanwhile, local governments opened temporary evacuation centers in several towns. The Japanese Coast Guard also repositioned vessels away from vulnerable ports. Additionally, train services along coastal routes slowed or paused for safety checks. So far, officials have reported no significant damage or injuries from the initial waves.
Japan sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly vulnerable to earthquake-triggered tsunamis. The nation has a sophisticated warning system that issues advisories within minutes of a seismic event. However, Monday’s tsunami advisory underscores the persistent risk from distant quakes. The JMA will continue monitoring sea levels and update the tsunami advisory as conditions change. For now, officials advise residents to stay away from water and remain on higher ground until the agency gives the all-clear. The tsunami advisory highlights the need for constant coastal vigilance in earthquake-prone regions.
