Key Facts
• July 30: A magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula at 8:25 AM.
• Tsunami observed in Fukushima: 60 cm in Soma City, 40 cm in Onahama, Iwaki City.
• Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory at 8:30 AM, upgraded to a warning an hour later.
• First tsunami warning in Fukushima since November 2016.
• Evacuation orders affected 108,000 households (approximately 240,000 people) in coastal areas.
• Iwaki City Mayor Hiroyuki Uchida urged residents to evacuate to higher ground or safe buildings.
• Residents reported traffic congestion on evacuation routes, with parking shortages at shelters.
• Fishing vessels in Onahama were sent offshore to avoid damage.
• National Route 6 was partially closed due to potential flooding.
• Coastal areas monitored by helicopters from the Japan Coast Guard.
Summary
On July 30, a magnitude 8.8 earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula triggered a tsunami warning along Japan’s Pacific coast, including Fukushima. Waves of up to 60 cm were recorded in Soma City and 40 cm in Onahama, Iwaki City. This marked the first tsunami warning in Fukushima since 2016. Evacuation orders impacted 108,000 households, with residents facing traffic congestion and parking shortages at shelters. Authorities urged immediate evacuation to higher ground. Fishing vessels were sent offshore to prevent damage, and parts of National Route 6 were closed due to flooding risks. The Japan Coast Guard monitored the situation from the air. No major damage or casualties were reported.
