Powerful earthquake hits Japan, triggering tsunami warnings which have now been canceled

A 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck western Japan on Monday, according to the United States Geological Survey and the Japan Meteorological Agency.

Tsunami waves of up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) hit a number of areas along Japan's western coast.

The tsunami warnings along portions of Japan’s western coast have been canceled as the threat of additional large waves diminishes.

While the threat of larger waves has now passed, tsunami advisories for waves up to 1 meter (about 3 feet) remain in effect.

Roads and buildings were damaged, transport and communication services have been disrupted, and officials warned of potential power outages for thousands of households.

Aftershocks have been reported, with Japan’s weather agency warning they could continue over the next three days to a week.

 Source: CNN