A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off Japan’s northeast coast near Iwate, prompting tsunami warnings and mass evacuations.

Although waves reached only about 80 cm and warnings were later lifted, officials caution that a stronger quake—possibly magnitude 8.0 or higher—could occur within the next week.

More than 170,000 people were ordered to evacuate, with disruptions to transport and some power outages reported.

No major damage or injuries were immediately confirmed, but authorities urged continued vigilance, the BBC has reported.

The event has revived memories of 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, underscoring ongoing risks in the region.