Japan Earthquake: 5.9-Magnitude Tremor Hits Eastern Region, 23 Injured
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Japan early Sunday, injuring 23 people across four prefectures and sending strong tremors through Tokyo and surrounding areas. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said the earthquake was centred in southern Ibaraki Prefecture at a depth of about 70 kilometres. No tsunami warning was issued following the quake.
Earthquake epicentre and affected areas
According to the JMA, the epicentre was located in southern Ibaraki Prefecture. The United States Geological Survey (USGS), however, recorded the earthquake at magnitude 5.8.
Tremors were felt across a wide area of eastern Japan, including Tokyo. There were no immediate reports of major, widespread damage, while authorities continued to assess the situation.
23 people injured across four prefectures
Official reports said 23 people were injured across four prefectures. Saitama and Kanagawa each reported nine injuries, while four people were injured in Chiba and one in Ibaraki.
Several people were hurt while trying to escape after the earthquake struck. Some fell or collided with furniture during the sudden tremors.
In Yokohama, an elderly man aged over 80 was seriously injured after falling from his bed, according to a report from the city.
No tsunami warning issued
Despite the strength of the earthquake, authorities did not issue a tsunami warning. Officials continued monitoring for further developments and assessing any damage caused by the tremors.
Japan remains highly earthquake-prone
Japan is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries and has developed an advanced earthquake early-warning system designed to alert residents within seconds of strong tremors.
The latest earthquake comes after a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the island of Kyushu on July 28, raising concerns over the possibility of a tsunami reaching up to one metre.
Japan’s earthquake alert system is intended to give residents crucial seconds to take cover and move away from dangerous areas, helping reduce casualties and damage during major seismic events.
