Shallow M7.4 earthquake hits offshore Iwate, Japan

A M7.4 earthquake was recorded at 07:52 UTC on April 20, 2026, approximately 115 km (71 miles) east-northeast of Miyako, Japan, at a depth of 10.0 km (6.2 miles). The epicenter was situated offshore, with geographical coordinates of 143.2°E and 39.9°N.

This location places the event in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Iwate Prefecture in the Tōhoku region of northeastern Japan. The nearest significant urban area is Miyako, a coastal city with a population exceeding 50 000, while the wider region is known for both fishing and maritime activity.

Given the offshore location, critical infrastructure within the area includes commercial ports, fishing harbors, and shipping lanes, as well as coastal highways and potential energy installations further inland.

There is a tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.

One felt report has been received for this event. The significance index is 843 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

This section of northeastern Japan lies along the active subduction zone where the Pacific Plate descends beneath the North American Plate, contributing to high seismicity and a history of large offshore earthquakes.

This information was last updated at 08:05 UTC on April 20, 2026.