Japan struck by 7.7 magnitude earthquake

Officials in Japan have warned of an increased risk of a huge earthquake next week after a magnitude 7.7 quake struck the north-eastern coast.

It’s reported the epicentre was in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Sanriku, prompting tsunami alerts which have since been cancelled.

There have been no reports of damage or casualties, according to a government spokesperson.

However, the Japan Meteorological Agency warns there is now a higher chance of an earthquake measuring 8.0 or higher impacting the island in the next week.