Major earthquake strikes Japan's north-east coast

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off the coast of Aomori prefecture in northeastern Japan at 11:15 PM local time, prompting tsunami warnings for Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate prefectures. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) warned of potential tsunami waves as high as 3 meters and reported smaller tsunamis already observed at several ports. The earthquake, with an epicenter 80km offshore at a depth of 30 miles, registered as an "upper six" on Japan's seismic intensity scale in Aomori prefecture. East Japan Railway suspended some services, and thousands were left without power, but no irregularities were reported at nuclear power plants. Japan is highly prone to earthquakes due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off the coast of Japan's northeast region on December 8, 2025, triggering tsunami warnings and evacuation orders. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) warned that a tsunami as high as three meters could hit the northeastern coast, and a 40cm tsunami was observed at Mutsu Ogawara and Urakawa ports. Tsunami warnings were issued for Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate prefectures. Several injuries were reported at a hotel in Hachinohe, Aomori. Train services were suspended, and nuclear power plants were undergoing safety checks. The government established an emergency task force to assess the damage, prioritizing the safety of residents.

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck north-eastern Japan at 23:15 (14:15 GMT), 80km off the coast of the Aomori region, prompting brief tsunami warnings and the evacuation of approximately 90,000 residents. At least seven people were injured, and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged residents to remain vigilant for aftershocks. Bullet train services were temporarily suspended along the north-eastern coast. No irregularities were reported at nuclear power plants, including the disabled Fukushima site. The government has established a response office to assess damage and implement emergency measures in the earthquake-prone country.