CIEE Security Alert – Japan

A severe magnitude-7.6 earthquake occurred in the western Pacific Ocean off the northeast coast of Honshu Island, Japan, at around 23:15 local time Dec. 8. The epicenter was approximately 74 km (46 miles) east-northeast of Misawa, Aomori Prefecture. Strong shaking was likely felt in eastern parts of Aomori Prefecture and surrounding areas of southern Hokkaido and northern Honshu. Moderate-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout the rest of Hokkaido and northern and eastern Honshu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is possible and damage assessments are ongoing in the region.

The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued tsunami warnings along the Pacific coasts of Aomori and Iwate prefectures and the central Pacific coast of Hokkaido; tsunami waves up to 3 meters (10 feet) are possible in these areas. More than 11,500 people have been ordered to evacuate in the towns of Niikappu and Urakawa in Hokkaido due to the tsunami threat; further such evacuation orders are likely in coastal areas. Tsunami advisories are in place for the Sea of Japan coast of Aomori Prefecture, the Pacific coasts of Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures, and the eastern and western Pacific coasts of Hokkaido. Warnings for minor wave fluctuations are in place along much of the rest of the southern and eastern Pacific coast of Japan, as well as the western Sea of Japan coast of Hokkaido.

At this time, we have no reports that any CIEE Japan participants have been impacted by the earthquake.

Participants have been alerted to the quake and are being reminded of safety measures and to follow local guidance. As this is a developing situation, CIEE will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain in contact with our participants.