Major Earthquake Hits Eastern Japan, Several Injured but No Tsunami Threat

Aug 23, Kathmandu - An earthquake measuring 5.9 magnitude struck eastern Japan on Sunday morning, causing injuries in multiple prefectures but officials have assured there is no tsunami risk.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake's epicenter was located 70 kilometers deep in southern Ibaraki Prefecture. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the earthquake as a 5.8 magnitude event.

At least 37 people have been injured across five prefectures, including Tokyo, Saitama, Kanagawa, Chiba, and Ibaraki. Most injuries resulted from falling, or from furniture and doors hitting individuals during the tremor.

In Yokohama, Kanagawa, an 80-year-old woman was seriously injured after falling out of bed, local media reported.

The earthquake caused delays in the express train connecting Tokyo and Narita Airport, as well as some local train services in the northeastern region. However, the Shinkansen bullet train service continued normally, according to East Japan Railway Company.

Prime Minister Takaichi Sane stated that a task force has been formed to assess the potential damages. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned residents in the affected areas to stay alert, as moderate aftershocks could occur over the next week.

In Tokyo’s Koto Ward, a burst underground water pipe led to street flooding, but repairs have been completed. The Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed that no abnormal activity has been reported at nuclear facilities nationwide.