UPDATE: 7.3 Quake off Japan; Tsunami Warnings Cancelled

News reports are describing an earthquake off the east coast of Japan with a magnitude, estimated by the U.S. Geological Survey, of 7.3. The quake struck approximately 245 kms (153 miles) east-southeast of Kamaishi early this morning.

The quake, which rattled buildings in Tokyo, occurred in the same area as the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami in March 2011. There have also been several aftershocks.

Tsunami warnings were issued along Japan’s east coast, but have subsequently been cancelled. There are reports of one wave, approximately one meter (3.1 feet), which came ashore in the Miyagi Prefecture, near the city of Ishinomaki.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey the epicenter of the quake was at a depth of around 35 kms (21.7 miles).

The US-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center indicated that there is no immediate threat across the Pacific Ocean, and, as noted above previous warnings along the jaopanese coast have been lifted.

Sources: U.S. Geological Survey and news reports