Powerful 6.9 earthquake strikes off northern Japan with no tsunami warning
A strong quake hit off Japan's northern coast, with the Meteorological Agency giving a preliminary magnitude of 6.9 and saying there was no danger of a tsunami.
Marcus Reeve
Writer ·
A powerful earthquake struck off Japan's northern coast on Thursday, with the country's Meteorological Agency giving a preliminary magnitude of 6.9 and saying there was no danger of a tsunami, the Associated Press reported.
Where it struck
The quake occurred off the eastern coast of Iwate prefecture at a depth of about 50 kilometres. Rail disruption was reported in the region as services were checked, while authorities continued to monitor an area that has experienced repeated strong tremors in recent months.
Japan sits on one of the world's most seismically active zones, and earthquakes of this magnitude are not unusual, though they are always closely watched for aftershocks and potential coastal effects.
What happens next
With no tsunami warning issued, the immediate priority for officials is assessing any damage to infrastructure and restoring disrupted transport links. Residents in the affected area have been urged to stay alert to the possibility of further tremors.
The Meteorological Agency's magnitude figure is preliminary and may be revised as more data is analysed.
Referenced coverage: Our reporting and analysis draws on coverage first reported by Associated Press. The NE Times publishes original reporting and independent analysis written by our editorial team. We credit and link the outlets whose primary reporting informed this article.
The NE Times is an independent news and analysis publisher. Our articles combine factual reporting with clearly-written, impartial analysis. Content is for general information and does not constitute professional advice. Disclaimer.
You may also like to read
Venezuelans search the rubble after powerful twin earthquakes kill scores
Rescue teams race through collapsed buildings in Caracas and along the coast as the death toll climbs, hospitals overflow with the injured and the government scrambles to coordinate relief.
Japan says China has detained two citizens in rare-earths case
Tokyo says Chinese customs notified its consular offices of detentions over alleged smuggling, reportedly linked to critical minerals.
Magnitude 5.6 earthquake jolts Mendocino County in Northern California
A quake described as the strongest in the area since 1940 struck near Willits, knocking items from shelves and cutting power to thousands.
Seoul keeps brakes on closer defence ties with Japan despite regional pressure
President Lee Jae-myung has ruled out a rapid expansion of military cooperation with Tokyo, insisting historical grievances be addressed first, even as North Korea, China and Russia draw closer together.