Japan hit by 7.5 earthquake

The tremor occurred off the coast of Sanriku, prompting residents to flee to higher ground as waves of up to 10 feet were expected.

While no major injuries or damage were immediately reported, bullet trains and motorways were halted across Iwate and Aomori prefectures.

The Japan Meteorological Agency noted that the risk of a magnitude 8.0 or stronger quake has slightly increased in the wake of the initial shock.

Emergency services remain on high alert as aftershocks continue to rattle the region.