What's Happening?
A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Aomori prefecture in northern Japan's Honshu island on December 13, 2025. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory, warning of potential waves up to one meter high. This event follows
a 7.5 magnitude earthquake earlier in the week that resulted in injuries, light damage, and a small tsunami in Pacific coastal communities. The recent quake occurred at a depth of about 12 miles and led to small waves in Hokkaido and Aomori prefectures, but no serious damage or injuries were reported. The tsunami advisory was lifted approximately two hours after being issued.
Why It's Important?
The earthquake highlights the ongoing seismic activity in the region, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The recent seismic events have raised concerns about the potential for a larger, more destructive earthquake, similar to the 2011 disaster that resulted in significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure, including a nuclear plant. The Japanese government has issued a megaquake advisory, estimating that an offshore megaquake could cause a tsunami up to 98 feet high and potentially kill nearly 200,000 people. Although the probability of such an event is low, the advisory serves as a reminder of the region's vulnerability to natural disasters.
What's Next?
While the immediate tsunami advisory has been lifted, the Japanese government and local authorities are likely to continue monitoring seismic activity closely. There may be increased efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and public awareness campaigns to ensure communities are ready for potential future events. The advisory could also prompt discussions on improving infrastructure resilience and emergency response strategies to mitigate the impact of any future large-scale earthquakes.
