2-1-2024 (SEOUL) The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) reported that a tsunami triggered by the earthquake off Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan prompted alerts along South Korea’s east coast. Waves were observed off Gangneung at 20 centimeters by 6:01 p.m., while Donghae experienced a 45-centimeter wave at 6:05 p.m.
As of 8 p.m., a tsunami wave measuring 67 centimeters hit Mukho, Donghae. Earlier predictions by the KMA suggested that the maximum tsunami wave height in the region would stay below 50 centimeters, the threshold for issuing a tsunami warning. However, the KMA emphasized that even waves measuring 20 to 30 centimeters can cause damage.
The agency highlighted the potential for a more dangerous tsunami level depending on tide fluctuations, with the possibility of tsunamis affecting Gangwon for over 24 hours. Earlier in the day, tsunami warnings were sent via text messages to residents in six cities and counties along the coast, urging evacuation to higher ground.
Maritime police forces reported no damage as of early Monday evening and remained vigilant. Gangwon’s meteorological authorities issued warnings for high waves in waters off coastal towns, with wind speeds reaching up to 16 meters per second. They cautioned that low-lying coastal areas could remain vulnerable to high waves throughout Monday night and into Tuesday morning.
Following the earthquake, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a major tsunami warning for Ishikawa and lower-level warnings for the rest of the northwestern coast of Honshu. While Japanese media mentioned potential 5-meter torrents, no immediate reports of damage surfaced.
South Korea’s foreign ministry stated it had received no reports of injury or damage for South Korean nationals in Japan as of Monday evening. The South Korean Consulate General in Niigata, overseeing Ishikawa, pledged continuous monitoring and assistance for South Korean residents. Approximately 1,200 South Koreans reside in Ishikawa Prefecture, with an additional 800 in adjacent Toyama Prefecture.
