Tokyo International News Agency

On Monday, April 20, at approximately 4:53 PM, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake occurred off the coast of Sanriku, with Aomori Prefecture recording a maximum seismic intensity of 5 upper. Following the event, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a "Hokkaido-Sanriku-Oki Follow-up Earthquake Advisory" at 7:30 PM that same day. According to the JMA, this earthquake has relatively increased the likelihood of a larger seismic event occurring along the Kuril and Japan Trenches compared to normal conditions. Consequently, the public is urged to remain vigilant for the next week, thoroughly prepare for potential future quakes by checking evacuation routes, and verifying emergency stockpiles. Social media users have reacted swiftly to the news, with many expressing the need for heightened caution and a review of emergency preparedness. Tensions remain high in affected areas, following reports of injuries sustained during evacuation and a tsunami measuring 80 centimeters recorded at ...

On April 20, 2026, a significant earthquake occurred with its epicenter off the coast of the Sanriku region. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) subsequently revised the magnitude of the quake upward to 7.7. The tremor was felt across a wide area, and tsunami advisories have been issued for coastal regions. On social media, the scale of the M7.7 quake has sparked widespread concern. Many users have expressed anxiety, noting that the magnitude exceeds that of the Noto Peninsula earthquake, leading to fears of a major disaster. There is a strong demand for expert analysis regarding the characteristics of this specific seismic event. Furthermore, as the JMA has issued a 'Notice of Follow-up Earthquake for the Hokkaido and Sanriku Coast,' which covers the Pacific coastline from Hokkaido to Chiba Prefecture, numerous posts are urging residents to reconfirm their emergency preparations and remain on high alert. While some observers have noted that the observed seismic intensity and...

A criminal complaint has been filed against Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama, drawing significant attention on social media due to allegations of a "malicious deception" involving the alleged misuse of payment slips and receipts. A detailed report by freelance journalist Yuta Suzuki has been widely circulated, with experts describing the situation as a "sophisticated double-entry tactic potentially violating the Political Funds Control Act." Reports suggest that the political branch headed by Katayama and the "Satsuki Katayama Supporters' Association" may have double-counted the same expenditures. In response to these allegations, social media users have voiced harsh criticism, calling the actions "sneaky," "deliberate," and "cunning." Given that the accused holds the position of Minister of Finance—the very office overseeing the nation's tax authorities—many have questioned her suitability for the role. Comments have...

An earthquake occurred around 6:44 PM on April 20th, with its epicenter in the Kii Channel. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), the earthquake had an estimated magnitude of 4.3 and a depth of approximately 20km. The earthquake registered a maximum seismic intensity of 3 in Wakayama Prefecture. Fortunately, there is no risk of a tsunami from this earthquake. On social media (X), reports such as “It was Shindo 3 in the Kii Channel” quickly appeared. Many users who regularly monitor seismic activity around the Kii Channel also shared comments like, “We've been seeing a lot of shallow activity recently, so I've been reporting on it,” and “I often report on the situation in the Kii Channel between Tokushima and Wakayama.” There were also comments such as, “An earthquake in the Kii Channel while Hokkaido and Tohoku are shaking 🤔,” and “There was an earthquake in Aomori and the Kii Channel... but I always keep in mind that 'it could happen to me next'...” Thes...

On the 20th, the popular idol group timelesz appeared on the TBS music program "CDTV Live! Live!," performing their latest song "GOOD TOGETHER" and the TV debut of "4-punkan Dake Jikan wo Kudasai" (Please Give Me Just 4 Minutes). During the broadcast, the hashtag #timeleszとグググッな4分間 (An Amazing 4 Minutes with timelesz) dominated social media trends, drawing passionate reactions from fans. The group opened with "GOOD TOGETHER," a track that has gone viral for its "too cute" choreography. Viewers were quick to praise the joyful performance, with many noting, "It's a bright, euphoric song that fills me with energy." Particular attention was given to the moment when Shori Sato and So Matsushima stood back-to-back, as well as the affectionate interactions between the members. Fans on social media shared their excitement, saying, "The Shori-So back-to-back was everything," and "Seeing the members so close and clear...

At 4:55 PM on April 20, 2026, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami warning for the central Pacific coast of Hokkaido and Iwate Prefecture following an earthquake centered off the Sanriku coast. In response to the emergency, social media platforms have been flooded with urgent calls for immediate evacuation. The Prime Minister's Office of Japan, through its disaster and crisis management information account, issued a strong appeal: "Please evacuate immediately." Responding to this, many users have shared desperate messages urging others to "prioritize your life," "head for higher ground or evacuation towers," and "never return until the warning is lifted, as tsunamis strike repeatedly." Beyond expressions of concern regarding earthquake damage and chaos, there has been a widespread movement among internet users to encourage others to evacuate, highlighting a significant surge in information sharing and a commitment to safety....

On the afternoon of April 20, 2026, a powerful earthquake occurred with its epicenter off the coast of Sanriku. Following the tremor, tsunami warnings and advisories were issued for coastal areas of Hokkaido and the Tohoku region, creating a tense situation in the affected communities. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and government authorities, a maximum seismic intensity of 5-plus was recorded in Aomori Prefecture. Consequently, tsunami warnings were issued for the Pacific coast of Hokkaido, as well as Aomori and Iwate Prefectures, while tsunami advisories were issued for Miyagi and Fukushima Prefectures. The government has urged residents in these areas to evacuate immediately to higher ground or other safe locations. On social media, many residents have shared reports of moving to evacuation centers and confusion regarding public transport suspensions. Infrastructure has been impacted, with trains grounded and ferry services canceled in some areas, forcing many to...