In brief: Tsunami advisory lifted after quake

TOKYO – A magnitude-6.9 earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan early today, triggering minor tsunamis but no reports of major damage or injuries.

The Japan Meteorological Agency lifted a tsunami advisory two hours after it was issued following the quake, which hit at 8 a.m. Japan time.

Hours later, another strong offshore quake — magnitude-5.7 this time — shook the area, following several smaller aftershocks reported in the area. There was no fear of tsunami or damage from them.

The earlier quake’s epicenter was at a depth of about 6 miles. It shook much of northeast Japan and could be felt in Tokyo, 430 miles away. The second struck generally the same area at 1:46 p.m. but occurred at a much deeper 30 miles below the sea surface.

Small tsunamis of up to 8 inches were recorded after the first quake along the coast of Iwate prefecture, according to the agency, much smaller than the possible 3-foot tsunami mentioned in the advisory.

The same region was hit by a devastating earthquake and tsunami in March 2011.

Boko Haram issues threat to Niger, Chad

YAOUNDE, Cameroon – The Nigeria-based extremist group Boko Haram on Monday threatened neighboring countries Niger and Chad, warning that fighters were prepared to carry out suicide bombings in the countries sending troops to help fight the militants.

The warning came as leaders from Niger and other countries in the region gathered in Cameroon’s capital to finalize plans for a joint offensive against the militants, who have stepped up their attacks in recent weeks.

Over the past 10 days, Boko Haram fighters have repeatedly struck the town of Diffa, Niger, but not the capital.

A multinational force to fight Boko Haram is expected to be formally launched in coming weeks. Chad, Cameroon, Niger and Benin initially pledged to help Nigeria. Monday, Burundi and Central African Republic also agreed to contribute troops.