A preliminary magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off Japan’s northeastern coast near Iwate on Thursday morning local time, with officials saying there was no tsunami danger and no immediate reports of injuries or damage. The shaking was felt in Tokyo and prompted temporary rail suspensions for safety checks.
Earthquake strikes off Iwate
A preliminary magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Iwate in northern Japan on Thursday morning local time, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency and the U.S. Geological Survey.
Officials said there was no danger of a tsunami.
The quake was reported at a depth of about 50 kilometers, AP said.
Shaking felt in Tokyo
The shaking was felt in Tokyo during the morning rush hour. AP reported there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.
Some bullet train and local rail services were suspended for safety checks after the quake.
Official monitoring continues
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara were among the officials monitoring the situation, while the Japan Meteorological Agency and other authorities watched for aftershocks and any transport or infrastructure impacts.
Iwate lies on Japan’s northeastern coast, a seismically active area that has seen strong earthquakes in recent months. The first reports suggested limited immediate disruption, but authorities were continuing safety inspections.
Revision note
Initial automated publication.