Major 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes off Japan, Creating Small Tsunami Waves (Update: Tsunami Warnings Canceled)

A 7.3 magnitude earthquake has hit off of the Northeast coast of Japan that caused tsunami warnings in the area. The earthquake triggered small tsunami waves hit Japan’s Miyagi Prefecture. Tensions were high as this was the same area that suffered the worst damage from the massive 9.0-magnitude quake and resulting tsunami in 2011 that left Japan in ruin with death and destruction.

A powerful earthquake struck off the northeast coast of Japan on Friday evening, rattling buildings in Tokyo and setting off a small tsunami.

It also jarred nerves in a nation still recovering from the devastating earthquake and tsunami in March 2011 that killed thousands of people and triggered the world’s worst nuclear crisis in a quarter century.

Some roads were closed and rail services suspended in the northeastern prefecture of Miyagi, where a one-meter (3-foot) tsunami rolled ashore. It was followed by four other waves ranging from eight to 16 inches. Only minor injuries were reported immediately, including five in Miyagi and five on the outskirts of Tokyo.

UPDATE I: According to reports the tsunami warnings have been canceled.