Japan faces a new threat as a result of last week's devastating earthquake, with the World Meteorological Organization warning Friday of an increased flood risk on the Pacific coast.

The WMO cited information gathered from member association the Japanese Meteorological Agency, saying the 9.0 magnitude earthquake had largely sunk the ground level of the Pacific coast of Tohoku region and northern part of Kanto region, making them vulnerable to flooding from spring tides.

The WMO recommended authorities pay special attention to the tide level and prepare for flooding in these regions.