According to the Japanese agency, the quake had a magnitude of 7.7, while the American Seismological Institute (USGS) said it had a magnitude of 7.4 and the Taiwan Meteorological Agency said it had a magnitude of 7.2. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 15.5 kilometers.
The JMA declared a tsunami alert for the Okinawa Islands, in southwestern Japan. Waves of 3 meters or higher are possible in Okinawa, public broadcaster NHK said. “Evacuate to higher ground, do not return,” said a presenter from the channel. All traffic has been halted at Naha Airport on Okinawa.
Kyodo news agency already reported a tsunami of 30 centimeters near Yonaguni island, in the south of the country, and the waves also reached Ishigaki island.
Taiwan also declared a tsunami alert after the earthquake on the east coast of the island. “The earthquake could cause a tsunami that could hit Taiwan. A tsunami alert has been declared, urging residents of coastal areas to be careful,” read a warning message sent by the government to the Taiwanese.
The Philippines is also warning of “high tsunami waves” and has called for the evacuation of coastal zones after a major earthquake near Taiwan. “It is strongly recommended that residents of the coastal municipalities in these provinces immediately evacuate to higher areas or move further inland,” said an advice from the national seismological institute for 23 provinces.
Tags: Major earthquake hits Taiwan tsunami alarm Japan Philippines
