1933 Japan Earthquake
Sanriku, Japan — March 3, 1933
The 1933 Sanriku earthquake generated a devastating tsunami that struck the same Sanriku coast that would be devastated again in 2011. Waves up to 28 meters destroyed hundreds of fishing villages. The earthquake reinforced the recognition of the extreme tsunami hazard facing the Sanriku coast.
Earthquake Facts
Magnitude
M8.4
Date
Mar 3, 1933
Depth
15 km
Deaths
3,064
Latitude
39.209°
Longitude
144.590°
Tsunami
Yes
Region
Japan
Tectonic Cause
Outer-rise normal fault earthquake where the Pacific Plate bends before subducting under the Japan Trench. The mechanism is different from the great megathrust earthquakes but produces equally dangerous tsunamis.
Aftermath in Pictures
Photos from Wikimedia Commons — open licenses (CC / Public Domain)
Images sourced from Wikimedia Commons under open licenses. Attribution required where specified. Click any image to enlarge.
Sources & Further Reading
Track Earthquakes in Real Time
Earthquake Globe sends push notifications when earthquakes occur near any location you choose, before you see it on the news.
iOS 16+ · iPhone & iPad · No subscription required