Japan earthquake: 5.9 magnitude quake shakes Tokyo, injures 12

An earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale jolted eastern Japan on Sunday, with the capital Tokyo experiencing significant tremors. The quake, originating in southern Ibaraki prefecture at a depth of 68 kilometers, resulted in at least 12 minor injuries and caused disruptions to railway services. Fortunately, no tsunami warning was issued, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

Strong shaking, reaching seismic intensity level 5 lower, was felt across Tokyo's 23 districts, as well as in Ibaraki, Saitama, and Chiba prefectures. The Saitama prefectural government reported nine individuals with minor injuries, while fire departments in Kawasaki city confirmed three more injured. Railway operator JR East announced temporary suspensions and delays on several metropolitan lines as inspections were conducted post-quake.

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Today, around 2:00 local time (17:00 GMT Saturday), an earthquake occurred with its epicenter in southern Ibaraki prefecture, and strong tremors were recorded up to seismic intensity level 5 lower in Tokyo's 23 districts and in the prefectures of Ibaraki, Saitama, and Chiba.

Nuclear regulators reported no anomalies at the Tokai No. 2 power plant in Ibaraki. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) also confirmed no impacts on its main facilities. The JMA urged continued caution, warning of the possibility of similar magnitude earthquakes within the next week, especially in the immediate two to three days. Japan, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences seismic activity, with infrastructure designed to withstand tremors.

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The tremor, originating in southern Ibaraki, had a depth of 68 kilometers, and did not generate a tsunami risk.