Russia Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warning, Forces Sendai Airport to Close Temporarily
Fundacion Rapala – Sendai International Airport in Natori City, Miyagi Prefecture, closed temporarily on Wednesday morning, July 30, 2025, after authorities issued a tsunami warning. NHK World Japan reported that airport officials halted runway operations at 9:57 a.m. local time, which caused several flight cancellations to and from Sendai.
The Japanese Ministry of Transport announced the tsunami alert at 9:40 a.m., prompting quick safety responses. At least three airlines—Tigerair Taiwan, EVA Airways, and Starlux Airlines—canceled their flights due to the alert, according to Taipei Times.
Airlines Adjust Schedules in Response to Warning
Tigerair Taiwan suspended its Kaohsiung–Sendai service until the airport reopens, with no set timeline. EVA Airways canceled all round-trip flights on the Taipei–Sendai route for Wednesday. To help affected passengers, EVA will use a larger Airbus A330-300 for Thursday’s flight on July 31, 2025.
Airlines urged travelers to check their official websites and stay updated through customer service channels. The cancellations left many passengers waiting or rerouting to alternate destinations.
Earthquake Near Kamchatka Peninsula Sparks Tsunami Concern
A powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula triggered the tsunami warning. The Japan Meteorological Agency observed tsunami waves as high as 1.3 meters at Kuji Port in Iwate Prefecture. Additional waves reached 80 centimeters in Nemuro, Hokkaido, and 70 centimeters in Ishinomaki Port, Miyagi Prefecture.
Waves also hit other coastal regions, including 30-centimeter waves in Yokohama Port. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge residents near the coast to stay alert.
Rail Services Disrupted Across Tokyo and Beyond
The tsunami threat affected more than air travel. Train services, including the Tokaido Line, Yokosuka Line, and Shonan-Shinjuku Line, experienced significant delays and partial suspensions in Tokyo and nearby areas.
Officials continue to evaluate the situation. They urge the public to follow evacuation guidance and rely on official communication for safety updates.