Tsunami Alert In Effect For Japan Coast
A tsunami alert is in effect over wide areas along the coast of Japan. It came after a massive volcanic eruption in Tonga on Saturday.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning on Sunday for the Amami Islands and the Tokara Islands in the southwestern prefecture of Kagoshima. It later issued a warning for the northeastern prefecture of Iwate.
Waves up to 3 meters high could reach those areas.
A tsunami advisory is also in place in wide areas.
A 1.2-meter tsunami was observed in the Kominato district of Amami-Oshima Island at 11:55 p.m. on Saturday.
A 1.1-meter wave was seen on Sunday in Iwate Prefecture's Kuji Port at 2:26 a.m.
90-centimeter waves have also been observed in other locations along the Pacific coast.
The Japan Coast Guard has sent patrol boats and planes to check coastal areas for damage.
But officials say no reports of damage had been received as of 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Even if one tsunami has reached a shore, others could follow. Higher waves may arrive after the initial ones.
The Meteorological Agency is urging people to remain vigilant in the coastal areas where tsunami alerts have been issued.
Local governments there are urging residents to evacuate as soon as possible. People are being advised to stay away from beaches and to avoid the mouths of rivers.
A video taken by a viewer in Setouchi Town on Amami-Oshima Island shows many cars trying to get to higher ground. Inside are people evacuating from their homes.