Japan issues alert for ‘major’ tsunami up to 9 feet along northern coast following Chile quake

Japan warns of tsunami up to 9 feet along coast

TOKYO — Japan’s Meteorological Agency has warned that a “major” tsunami of up to 9 feet (3 meters) could hit northern coastal areas within the next few hours following a massive earthquake in Chile.

The agency issued the tsunami alert Sunday morning for its entire Pacific coast. The tsunami was expected to be biggest in the north, with waves of 6 feet (2 meters) or less expected along other coastal areas.

The tsunami was expected to hit northern areas about 1:30 p.m. local time (0430 GMT).

The agency urged residents in coastal areas to head quickly to higher ground.