Panic, Injuries as 7.5-Magnitude Earthquake Rocks Northern Japan — Survivors Recount Terrifying Moments

A devastating 7.5-magnitude earthquake shook Northern Japan on Tuesday afternoon, injuring dozens and sending thousands racing for safety as buildings swayed violently and emergency alarms echoed across multiple prefectures.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the quake struck at 3:42 p.m. off the coast of Northern Honshu. Strong tremors rippled through Iwate, Aomori, Akita, and parts of Hokkaido, triggering a brief tsunami advisory and widespread public fear.

“The whole house felt like it was splitting apart”

Residents Share Fearful Moments

Residents described the quake as one of the most frightening in years.

“I grabbed my daughter and ran. The whole house felt like it was splitting apart,” said Keiko Matsuda, a resident of Aomori whose home suffered wall cracks and fallen shelves. “Everything was shaking — I thought it was the end.”

In Iwate, office worker Takeshi Morimoto recalled being thrown off balance as ceiling lights swung violently.

“It started slow, then suddenly the ground roared. People screamed and hid under desks. When we rushed outside, dust and alarms were everywhere,” he said.

Shops and supermarkets in several towns were left in disarray, with goods scattered across aisles. “Items were flying off the shelves,” said Ayumi Sato, a store manager in Akita. “We’ve had quakes, but nothing this strong in years.”

Hospitals Strained as Dozens Injured
Emergency workers reported dozens of injuries, including fractures, cuts, and cases of shock. Hospitals in Aomori and Iwate received a sudden influx of patients.

“We are treating residents for trauma-related injuries and panic attacks,” said Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka of Morioka Municipal Hospital. “Some elderly patients fell while trying to evacuate.”

Government, Experts React
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed concern during a late-evening briefing.
“We are closely monitoring the situation. Emergency teams are deployed across affected areas to ensure safety and assess damage,” he said, urging citizens to remain vigilant as aftershocks continue.

Seismologist Dr. Reina Okubo from Tokyo University warned that aftershocks could persist for days.
“A quake of this magnitude releases enormous energy. People should stay away from unstable structures and coastal areas,” she advised.

Damage and Disruptions

• Power outages were reported in several districts.
• The Shinkansen suspended operations temporarily for track inspections.
• Multiple highways were closed due to landslide concerns.
• Coastal communities saw slight sea-level rises before the tsunami advisory was lifted.

Despite the disruption, Local Firefighters, Police, and Rescue Teams worked swiftly to restore order and assist affected households.

For residents like Keiko Matsuda, the resilience of the community offers comfort.
“Even though we’re shaken, everyone is helping one another. That gives us hope,” she said.