Japan experienced two strong earthquakes within five days. On the night of December 8, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck off the coast east of Aomori Prefecture, followed by a 6.7 magnitude earthquake in the same area on the morning of December 12. The China Earthquake Networks Center determined the magnitude to be 6.8 and issued a tsunami warning. Professor Hiroaki Takahashi of Hokkaido University stated that there is a possibility of larger earthquakes occurring than the 6.7 and 7.5 magnitude tremors experienced.
Professor Sakai Shin'ichi from the University of Tokyo's earthquake research institute remarked, "The precise location of the epicenter is still unclear, but it is suspected to be part of prior seismic activity. In the coming period, we need to be aware of seismic movements caused by these earthquakes and hope that the public will reconfirm their disaster preparedness and practice specific response measures in the event of an earthquake."
Professor Takahashi also mentioned, "Although the epicenter of this earthquake was shallower than the 7.5 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Aomori on December 8, the aftershock area has extended to shallower depths, suggesting that today's earthquake is also a continuation of the previous seismic activity. The 'Hokkaido-Sanriku offshore subsequent earthquake advisory' is still in effect, and the public is urged to reconfirm their regular disaster preparedness."
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a "Hokkaido-Sanriku offshore subsequent earthquake advisory" in the early hours of December 9, indicating that the likelihood of a significant earthquake occurring along the Kuril Trench and Japan Trench regions is relatively higher than usual. The Japanese Cabinet and the Meteorological Agency urged the public to take disaster response measures in accordance with the instructions from the government and local authorities over the next week. However, it was clarified that the issuance of this advisory does not mean that a major earthquake will certainly occur.
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