Press Conference by Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae regarding the Earthquake off the Eastern Coast of Aomori Prefecture (2)

Good evening, and thank you for your continued efforts late into the night. At around 11:15 p.m. yesterday, an earthquake occurred off the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture, registering a maximum intensity of 6 upper in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture. Following this earthquake, Tsunami Warnings were issued for the Pacific coastal areas of Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate Prefectures.

Immediately after the earthquake, the Government established the Prime Minister’s Office Crisis Response Center within the Crisis Management Center and has been working to assess the extent of the damage. We have so far received reports of seven injuries, and we will continue making every effort to gather information on the situation.

As Tsunami Warnings have been issued in connection with this earthquake, tsunami heights of up to approximately 3 meters are expected. Since the warnings have not yet been lifted, please evacuate immediately to a safe place such as higher ground or an evacuation building.

Based on a detailed review of the earthquake’s hypocenter and magnitude, it has been assessed that the likelihood of a large earthquake occurring off the coast of Hokkaido and Sanriku has increased compared to normal times. Accordingly, the “Off the Coast of Hokkaido and Sanriku Subsequent Earthquake Advisory” has been issued.

Regardless of whether your area has been affected by this earthquake, residents in regions where damage is expected are advised to pay close attention to updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency and local authorities over the next week or so. In addition to reviewing your regular earthquake preparedness—such as securing furniture—please ensure that you are ready to evacuate immediately if you feel any shaking.

Thank you very much.