Tsunami Advisory Lifted in Japan After Kamchatka Quake; Miyako City on Alert but Safe
A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula triggered a tsunami advisory along Japan's northeastern coast, including Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture. Waves up to 1.3 meters were observed, prompting evacuation orders. However, no casualties or significant damage were reported in Miyako, thanks to swift emergency response and post-2011 infrastructure like seawalls and evacuation systems. The advisory was lifted by July 31, and life has returned to normal.
NETB24
Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture | Following a powerful magnitude 8.8 earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on July 30, Japan’s northeast coast, including Miyako City in Iwate Prefecture, was placed under a tsunami advisory. Authorities responded quickly, issuing evacuation orders in vulnerable coastal regions amid fears of a repeat of the devastating 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
Tsunami waves of up to 1.3 meters were observed in Kuji, also in Iwate, with smaller waves reported at over 16 locations along the Pacific coast. In Miyako, emergency sirens sounded and evacuation centers were opened. Fortunately, the tsunami’s impact was minimal in the city, and no casualties or major damage have been reported.
Japan’s Meteorological Agency lifted the tsunami warnings by July 31, and residents were allowed to return home. The swift action of local authorities and strict preparedness protocols—developed in the aftermath of the 2011 disaster—were credited for ensuring safety.
Miyako, which saw tsunami waves exceeding 38 meters in 2011, has since reinforced its coastal defenses, including seawalls and rapid-response evacuation systems.
This event served as a stern reminder of Japan’s geographic vulnerability, but also showcased the strength of its modern disaster management systems.
By Pradip Gogoi
