Earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale struck the northern coast of Japan on Monday, December 8, 2025. Following this, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami warning for the northeastern coast, cautioning that waves could reach up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) in height. The epicenter was located approximately 50 kilometers beneath the sea off the coast of Aomori and Hokkaido prefectures. The tremors were so strong that Aomori registered a seismic intensity of 6+ on Japan’s 7-point scale—an intensity level that makes it difficult for people to stand or walk. The Japan Meteorological Agency has urged coastal residents to evacuate immediately and move to higher and safer ground without delay.
Government agencies are on high alert after the tsunami warning was issued, and public broadcaster NHK has asked all residents in the area to pay attention to TV and radio announcements. In particular, an investigation is underway on a war footing to determine whether the earthquake has had any impact on nuclear power plants in the area. So far, there have been no reports of major damage, but the administration is taking extreme precautions considering the potential risk.
Japan is a country that is prone to earthquakes, so earthquakes are frequent here. However, a tsunami warning of 3 meters high is considered serious, as such waves can cause major damage to homes and infrastructure in coastal areas. Local residents need to take immediate measures to avoid the risk of old memories and damage. Officials have appealed to people to stay away from the coast until the warning is lifted.