Canada issues new warning to Japan travellers amid natural disaster risk

Tourists heading to Japan should take note, as Canada has updated its travel advisory for the popular destination.

The Government of Canada updated its advisory for Japan on Sunday, warning travellers about a potential safety risk. The latest statement focuses on natural disasters and climate-related risks.

According to the advisory, a tsunami threat is currently in effect for the northern Pacific coast of Japan. Tsunami advisories are in place for several prefectures, including Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima.

Canadians in or around the affected areas are urged to follow the instructions of local authorities, and to monitor local news for "information on the tsunami's progress."

NHK reports that the warning was issued after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck northern Japan off the coast of Sanriku, Iwate Prefecture, at 4:52 p.m. local time. Over 170,000 residents in affected regions were urged to evacuate. Bullet train service in the area was also halted following the earthquake.

Kuji Port in Iwate Prefecture was struck by an 80-centimetre tsunami, and water levels are continuing to rise. Other areas also recorded tsunami levels reaching 40 centimetres or lower.

"If you are in the affected areas, keep away from coasts and river mouths which could overflow," reads an advisory on NHK's website. "Continue to evacuate until all advisories are lifted."

Those in affected regions can expect to see changes to the sea level, with waves higher than expected. Although tsunami warnings were lifted, advisories remain in place.

Authorities are also warning people of the possibility of another earthquake.

The Japan Meteorological Agency issued an alert for a potential "mega-quake," urging people in seven prefectures to prepare for disaster and to stay on top of updates.

Canadians travelling internationally can sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies citizens outside the country of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home.