Warnings of Mega-Earthquake Issued Following Powerful Earthquake in Japan

A powerful earthquake, measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale, has struck the northern coastal region of Japan, prompting a tsunami alert and warnings of a possible even more powerful disaster.

The earthquake was recorded at 4:53 PM local time near the coast of Sanriku, close to the Chishima Trench. Around 80-centimeter high waves have already been observed at the Kuji port in Iwate Prefecture, but experts are not ruling out the possibility of a tsunami reaching up to 3 meters in height.

The Japan Meteorological Agency and the government have issued an emergency statement indicating that there is a 1% chance in the coming week that the recent quake could lead to an even stronger 'mega-earthquake'. While this is not a definitive prediction, authorities have advised residents in coastal areas to remain vigilant, replenish food supplies, and update emergency kits.

More than 128,000 citizens have been advised to relocate to higher ground, although residents have been urged to continue their normal lives. As of now, there have been no reports of casualties or serious destruction.