Tokyo, Japan — December 9, 2025
A strong magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck off the northern coast of Japan late Monday, causing injuries, power outages, transport disruptions, and tsunami alerts across several Pacific-facing communities. Officials also cautioned residents about the possibility of strong aftershocks and an increased risk of a larger quake in the coming days.
Quake Strikes Near Aomori Late at Night
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), the earthquake occurred at 11:15 p.m., with the epicenter located roughly 80 kilometers off the coast of Aomori Prefecture, at a depth of around 50 kilometers. The tremor was felt strongly across northern Honshu, shaking homes, shops, and transportation hubs.
Local resident and convenience store owner Nobuo Yamada told public broadcaster NHK that he had “never experienced shaking this strong,” adding that he was relieved that electricity remained available in his area.
Tsunami Waves Recorded Up to 70 Centimeters
Following the quake, tsunami waves were observed along parts of the Pacific coastline.
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Kuji Port in Iwate Prefecture recorded waves reaching 70 centimeters,
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Several nearby coastal towns experienced surges up to 50 centimeters, according to JMA.
While the agency initially warned of potential tsunami heights of up to 3 meters, the alert was later downgraded to a tsunami advisory.
At Least 23 People Injured
Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency confirmed that 23 people were injured, including one in serious condition. Most injuries were caused by falling debris. NHK reported that some hotel guests in Hachinohe were hurt, and a driver in Tohoku sustained minor injuries after his vehicle sank into a ground depression created by the quake.
Power Outages and Transport Suspensions
Government spokesperson Minoru Kihara said approximately 800 households were left without electricity.
High-speed Shinkansen services and several local rail lines were suspended as safety checks were carried out.
Nuclear Plant Safety Checks Underway
Nuclear facilities in the region initiated emergency inspections. The Nuclear Regulation Authority reported that about 450 liters of water spilled from a spent fuel cooling system at the Rokkasho reprocessing plant in Aomori. However, the agency confirmed there was no risk to public safety.
Evacuations and Emergency Response
Around 480 people sought temporary refuge at the Hachinohe Air Base, where Japan’s Defense Ministry deployed 18 helicopters to survey possible damage.
Meanwhile, New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido saw around 200 passengers stranded overnight due to flight disruptions.
Officials Warn of Aftershocks and Possible Larger Quake
JMA urged residents from Chiba Prefecture up to Hokkaido to remain prepared, explaining that the risk of another strong earthquake—potentially magnitude 8 or higher—had increased slightly. Emergency preparedness was advised for 182 municipalities in the region.
Government Prioritizing Emergency Response
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said an emergency task force had been activated to assess the situation and coordinate disaster response efforts. “Protecting lives is our highest priority,” she stated, urging residents to stay alert and evacuate immediately if strong shaking occurs again.
Tsunami Advisories Lifted by Morning
By 6:20 a.m. Tuesday, all tsunami advisories for the Pacific coast of northern Japan were lifted.
In a separate event, the U.S. Geological Survey recorded a magnitude 5.1 aftershock early Tuesday south of Honcho.
Authorities continue monitoring seismic activity closely as the region recovers from the overnight quake.