Japan warns of increased risk of major magnitude-8 quake following 7.7 tremor

TOKYO, April 20 — Japan has issued a special advisory warning of a heightened risk of a magnitude 8.0 or stronger earthquake following a powerful tremor that struck the country’s north and triggered a tsunami alert.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the probability of another major quake is “higher than usual” under current conditions.

The advisory came hours after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake hit offshore near Iwate prefecture, with tremors felt as far as Tokyo, hundreds of kilometres away.

The quake, initially recorded at 7.4 before being revised to 7.5 and later 7.7, struck at 4.53pm local time in the Pacific Ocean.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said there were no immediate reports of major damage or serious injuries.

In a separate briefing, a Cabinet Office official said that while another large quake cannot be confirmed, the public should take precautionary steps and remain prepared for emergencies. — AFP