TATEYAMA, KOMPAS.com – A number of whales were found stranded along the coastline of Tateyama City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.

The incident occurred just hours after an 8.7-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia's Pacific coast and triggered tsunami warnings in Japan and the United States.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the first tsunami wave, about 30 centimeters high, reached the Hokkaido region at 10:40 local time.

Although no major damage was immediately reported, the presence of these stranded whales attracted widespread attention from the Japanese public and the international community.

Evacuation orders and aftershock warnings

Japanese authorities immediately issued evacuation orders for a number of coastal areas and areas near rivers.

Residents are asked to move to higher ground or to designated evacuation buildings.

"Tsunami damage is expected. Immediately evacuate coastal areas and riverbanks to safe locations, such as higher ground or evacuation centers," reads the official government warning.

JMA warned that tsunami waves do not come just once.

"Although the first wave may appear small, tsunamis often come in multiple waves. Subsequent waves can be larger and more dangerous," the JMA said in a statement.

Why do whales get stranded during a tsunami?

According to marine biologists, whales are usually safe in deep waters because tsunami waves are only felt small there. However, when the waves approach land, ocean currents can change drastically.

"Whales can become disoriented when ocean currents suddenly change due to a tsunami. They may become trapped in shallow waters and end up stranded on the beach," explained a marine researcher from the University of Tokyo.

Sudden changes in water depth and the accompanying strong currents can make it difficult for whales to navigate.

If not treated immediately, these whales are at high risk of dehydration or organ failure.