Strong M6.9 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan
A strong earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.9 struck near the east coast of Honshu, Japan, at 22:30 UTC on June 24, 2026 (07:30 LT on June 25). The agency is reporting a depth of 51 km (32 miles). EMSC is reporting M6.9 at a depth of 53 km (33 miles). According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC), there is no tsunami threat from this event.
Epicenter of M6.9 earthquake near the east coast of Honshu, Japan on June 24, 2026. Credit: TW/SAM, Google
The epicenter was located 30 km (19 miles) ESE of Kuji (population 34 418), 56 km (35 miles) ESE of Hachinohe (population 239 046), 70 km (43 miles) E of Ichinohe (population 12 053), 73 km (45 miles) N of Miyako (population 51 150), and 104 km (65 miles) SW of Morioka (population 290 700), Japan.
345 000 people are estimated to have felt strong shaking, 1.4 million moderate, and 3 million light.
Based on all available data, there is no tsunami danger from this earthquake. NWS Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) reported that no tsunami impacts are expected.
The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are heavy wood frame and reinforced/confined masonry construction.
Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and fires that might have contributed to losses.
Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking
Selected cities exposed
Regional seismicity
References:
1 M6.9 earthquake near east coast of Honshu, Japan – USGS – June 25, 2026
2 M6.9 earthquake near east coast of Honshu, Japan – EMSC – June 25, 2026
I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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