A magnitude-6.7 earthquake struck off Japan's eastern coastline early Friday morning, triggering tsunami advisories and emergency warnings across northern prefectures. The China Earthquake Networks Center reported the quake occurred at 11:44 a.m. local time (0244 GMT) on December 12, 2025, with its epicenter located 114 kilometers below the sea surface.
Japanese authorities immediately issued alerts for Aomori, Hokkaido, and Iwate prefectures, where residents were advised to evacuate coastal areas. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of potential tsunami waves reaching up to 1 meter, with initial surges already observed in some ports.
This seismic event follows a larger magnitude-7.6 earthquake that rattled the same region earlier this month, raising concerns about intensified tectonic activity along the Pacific Ring of Fire. While no major structural damage has been reported yet, bullet train services in affected areas have been temporarily suspended as a precaution.
"Our teams are conducting urgent infrastructure assessments," said Hokkaido Disaster Management Director Kenji Sato. "We urge residents to remain vigilant for aftershocks and follow official evacuation guidelines."
Japan's advanced early warning system provided crucial seconds of alert before strong tremors reached populated areas, demonstrating the country's continued leadership in earthquake preparedness. International seismologists are closely monitoring the situation, particularly given the region's history of devastating tsunamis.
