Daijiworld Media Network – Imphal/Tokyo

Imphal/Tokyo, Apr 21: A moderate earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck Manipur early Tuesday morning, while a powerful undersea quake off Japan triggered tsunami warnings, causing panic across parts of Asia.

According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the tremor in Manipur occurred at around 5.59 am in Kamjong district at a depth of 62 km. Residents were jolted awake as the earthquake shook the region, but there have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage to property. Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored as a precaution.

Meanwhile, Japan experienced a far stronger earthquake of magnitude 7.5 on Monday evening, with the epicentre located under the seabed off the Sanriku coast. The quake prompted the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami warning.

Waves measuring up to 80 cm have already struck Kuji Port in Iwate Prefecture, while officials warned that waves as high as 3 metres could follow. Coastal residents have been advised to evacuate to safer areas.

Authorities have issued evacuation advisories across 11 towns in Iwate Prefecture and urged caution in neighbouring Miyagi and Fukushima regions, citing the possibility of further tremors over the next week.

The situation has revived memories of the devastating 2011 Tohoku tsunami, which claimed around 22,000 lives, prompting heightened alertness among officials and residents alike.

Officials in both regions have stressed preparedness and vigilance as monitoring continues, with global attention focused on ensuring safety and preventing any escalation of the situation.