The quake hit at 11:15 p.m. local time and was centered about 80 km (50 miles) off Aomori Prefectureat a depth of 50–53 km. Shaking was felt widely across Hokkaido, Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushimawith reports of injuries and disrupted infrastructure.
Japan issues tsunami warnings after powerful 7.6 quake off northeast coast
Where the quake hit and how strong it was
Japan’s Meteorological Agency recorded intense shaking along the northern coastline. Parts of Aomoriincluding It doesn’t existreached Shindo “upper 6”a level strong enough to make standing difficult and cause structural damage.
The offshore epicenter, positioned in the Pacific east of Aomori, produced long, rolling tremors across northeastern Japan. Rail lines halted. Emergency centers opened. Local governments urged residents in low-lying districts to move immediately to higher ground.
A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off the northeast coast of Japan on the night of 8 December 2025. The epicentre was located roughly 80 km (≈ 50 miles) offshore from Aomori Prefecture, at a depth of about 50 km.
Tsunami warnings, wave heights, and risk outlook
Tsunami warnings were issued for Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwatewith advisories for Miyagi and Fukushima. Forecast models from the Japan Meteorological Agency showed potential waves reaching up to 3 meters (about 10 feet). Observed waves so far have been modest. Ports in Aomori and Hokkaido recorded 40–50 cm surges. Some northern harbors, including Kuji in Iwatereported early wave arrivals but without major flooding.
Officials stress that initial small waves do not rule out larger, more dangerous surges. Complex seafloor topography could delay stronger waves. Residents have been told to remain evacuated until the government issues an official “all clear.”
Evacuation orders currently cover coastal towns across Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate. Local authorities report that at least 90,000 residents have been told to leave shoreline districts and move to shelters or elevated areas.
Rail services operated by East Japan Railway were temporarily suspended across affected routes. Power outages were reported shortly after the quake but were narrowed to a few hundred homes as crews restored service overnight. No major structural failures or nuclear-plant issues have been confirmed.
Current status: small waves so far, but danger remains
As of the latest updates, no widespread or destructive tsunami has struck Japan’s northeastern coast. However, the magnitude of the quake and continued aftershocks have kept emergency agencies on high alert. Forecasters warn that changes in tide, geography, and aftershock-triggered shifts could still produce stronger waves.
Residents in advisory and warning zones are urged to monitor alerts from the Japan Meteorological Agency and local governments. Officials reiterate: do not return to the coastline until evacuation orders are lifted.