What Caused the M 7.0 Earthquake in NE Honshu, Japan?

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In summary, a preliminary Mw7.0 earthquake was reported approximately in the Sendai area of NE Honshu, Japan. It occurred right on the coast and was deeper than the great Tohoku Earthquake of 2011, which happened ten years and 9 days ago. The earthquake was also compared to a M 7.1 earthquake that occurred about 5 weeks ago, with a similar depth and location.
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M 7.0 - 27.5 km (17.1 mi) ENE of Ishinomaki, Miyagi, Japan 27.5 km (17.1 mi)
  • 2021-03-20 09:09:45 (UTC)
  • 38.475°N 141.607°E
  • 54.0 km depth
Today's earthquake is closer to the coast and deeper than the great Tohoku Earthquake of March 11, 2011 (ten years and 9 days ago).

For comparison: M 9.1 - 2011 Great Tohoku Earthquake 94.5 km (58.7 mi) E of Ishinomaki, Miyagi, Japan,
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/official20110311054624120_30/executive
  • 2011-03-11 05:46:24 (UTC)
  • 38.297°N 142.373°E
  • 29.0 km depth
 

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1. What does "Mw 7.0" mean?

"Mw" stands for moment magnitude, which is a measure of the size or strength of an earthquake. A magnitude of 7.0 on the moment magnitude scale indicates a strong earthquake.

2. Where is Honshu, Japan located?

Honshu is the largest and most populous island of Japan, located in the northern and eastern hemispheres of the Earth. It is part of the Japanese archipelago and is situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan.

3. What does "NE" in the earthquake's name stand for?

"NE" stands for northeast, indicating the location of the earthquake on the island of Honshu, Japan.

4. Is a magnitude 7.0 earthquake considered dangerous?

Yes, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake is considered a major earthquake and can cause significant damage and destruction. The effects of the earthquake also depend on factors such as the depth of the earthquake and the local geology.

5. Is there a risk of a tsunami following this earthquake?

There is a possibility of a tsunami following this earthquake, especially if it occurred near the coast. It is important to follow any evacuation orders or warnings issued by local authorities in the event of a tsunami.

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