A powerful **Japan earthquake** struck late last night, December 8, 2025, sending shockwaves across northern Honshu and Hokkaido. As millions search for “**Japan earthquake today**”, “**tsunami warning Japan**”, and “**earthquake in Japan now**”, here are the latest verified updates on magnitude, tsunami alerts, injuries, and what residents and travelers need to know right now.
Earthquake Details – What Happened?
- **Magnitude**: 7.6 (USGS) / 7.4 (JMA)
- **Date & Time**: December 8, 2025, 11:15 PM JST
- **Epicenter**: Off the Sanriku coast, Aomori Prefecture (40.96°N, 142.18°E)
- **Depth**: 44.1 km (relatively shallow – stronger shaking felt on land)
- **Maximum Intensity**: Shindo 6+ in Hachinohe and surrounding areas – objects thrown, difficult to stand
The quake originated in the same Japan Trench zone responsible for the devastating 2011 Tōhoku disaster, instantly triggering memories and maximum alertness nationwide.
Tsunami Warning Japan – Current Status (as of 10:00 AM JST, Dec 9)
- **Major Tsunami Warning** (up to 3 meters) issued for Aomori, Iwate, and eastern Hokkaido coasts
- **Tsunami Advisory** (up to 1 meter) for Miyagi, Fukushima, Ibaraki
- First waves already observed:
- 
- 50 cm in Urakawa (Hokkaido)
- 40 cm in Hachinohe and Mutsu
- Over 90,000 people evacuated overnight
- As of now, NO major tsunami damage reported, but warnings remain in effect until at least midday
### Injuries and Damage – Latest Numbers
- At least 35 people injured (22 in Aomori, 10 in Hokkaido, 3 in Iwate)
- Collapsed shelves, broken windows, and fallen signs in Hachinohe shopping districts
- Two minor fires quickly extinguished in Aomori City
- Cracked roads and minor landslides reported on snow-covered highways
- Shinkansen services suspended between Morioka and Shin-Aomori
- 2,700 households without power overnight (most restored by morning)
### Is There a Megaquake Risk? Nankai & Sanriku Alert Explained
For the first time ever, Japan issued a **“Nankai Trough Extraordinary Earthquake Advisory”** alongside a specific **Sanriku-Hokkaido megaquake watch**.
Current estimated probability of an M8–9 event in the next 30 days: roughly 1% (up from normal 0.1%).
While low, authorities are urging everyone in eastern Japan to:
- Secure furniture
- Prepare 7-day emergency kits
- Know your nearest evacuation site
### Safety Advice if You’re in Japan Right Now
1. Stay away from coasts until ALL tsunami warnings are officially lifted
2. Expect strong aftershocks – a 6.7 and 6.6 already hit this morning
3. Download the JMA app or Yurekuru Call for instant alerts
4. If you feel shaking: Drop, Cover, Hold On
5. Check gas leaks and avoid elevators
### Historical Context – Why Sanriku Keeps Getting Hit
- 869 Jōgan Earthquake & Tsunami
- 1896 Meiji-Sanriku Tsunami (22,000+ deaths)
- 1933 Shōwa-Sanriku Earthquake
- 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake (magnitude 9.1)
This region experiences a major tsunami roughly every 300–500 years, with smaller but deadly events far more frequently.
### Final Thoughts – Stay Vigilant
Today’s **earthquake in Japan** and the accompanying **tsunami warning** were a close call, but thanks to world-class preparation, the outcome has so far been far better than 2011. That said, aftershocks and the elevated megaquake advisory mean the next few days remain critical.
If you’re searching for “**Japan earthquake today tsunami warning**” – bookmark this page. We’ll keep updating live as new information comes in.
Stay safe, Japan.
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