6.8 Japan Quake; No California Tsunami Threat

A magnitude 6.8 earthquake hit northern Japan early Wednesday morning. A tsunami alert was announced for same area that was devastated by last year’s 8.9 quake and tsunami.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii said there was no threat there or  the California coast.

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A tsunami of about a half-meter was forecast for Hokkaido island’s central and eastern Pacific coast, and for Aomori and Iwate prefectures, acording to the Associated Press. However, Japanese media urged residents to seek higher ground.

Various news agencies reported a wave ranging from 10 centimeters (four-inches) to 50 centimeters (20 inches).

No damages have been reported at the Fukushima or Onagawa Nuclear plant, according to ABC News.