A powerful earthquake hit off the northern coast of Japan on Thursday. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported no risk of a tsunami. The quake was initially recorded at magnitude 6.9, later upgraded to 7.2, occurring off the eastern coast of Iwate. The tremor had a depth of about 50 kilometers (30 miles).
The United States Geological Survey also noted the earthquake at a magnitude of 6.9. Recent months have seen repeated strong quakes in this area. In December, a weeklong mega-quake caution advisory was triggered by another event.
The earthquake struck during Thursday’s morning rush hour in Japan’s northeastern region, mildly impacting Tokyo. Minoru Kihara, the government spokesperson, reported no immediate reports of injuries or damage. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized that the emergency team prioritizes lives while gathering information and preparing for any necessary relief efforts. Residents in the affected areas are advised to be cautious of potential aftershocks.
Tomoko Nagane, a primary school principal in Hashikami, Aomori prefecture, mentioned feeling moderate shaking while driving. She confirmed the safety of children at the school, noting their fear. Classes were canceled, and children were sent home safely.
Journalists from NHK public television noted the shaking in strongly affected towns like Sendai and Morioka, reporting no visible damage. Commuting continued as normal in footage. The East Japan Railway Co. suspended some bullet trains and local lines for safety checks.
No abnormalities were reported at nuclear power facilities, including the Fukushima Daiichi plant, damaged in the 2011 quake and tsunami, and a spent fuel reprocessing plant in Aomori.
Japan, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is among the world’s most earthquake-prone regions.
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