A 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit the Tokyo region early Sunday, causing minor injuries and disrupting local train services.
Key facts
- •The Japan Meteorological Agency measured the quake at magnitude 5.9, while the US Geological Survey estimated it at 5.8.
- •The earthquake originated at a depth of 68km in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture.
- •At least 37 people sustained minor injuries during the event.
- •East Japan Railway Company reported that regional train services in Tokyo were disrupted on Sunday morning.
- •Weather officials warned of possible landslides due to the combination of the quake and recent torrential rain.
A 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck near Tokyo at 2am local time on Sunday, August 23. The tremor caused violent shaking across the capital and surrounding areas, resulting in at least 37 minor injuries and temporary disruptions to regional train services.
By the numbers
Impact and Damage
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported the quake occurred at a depth of 68km in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture. While no tsunami warning was issued, the Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency confirmed 37 people sustained minor injuries, including an elderly woman in Yokohama who suffered a hip injury after falling. Additionally, a building in Saitama reported minor damage, and authorities are investigating a ruptured water main in Tokyo to determine if it was caused by the seismic activity.
Ongoing Risks and Warnings
The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued warnings regarding the potential for strong aftershocks in the coming days. Officials also cautioned that the region faces an increased risk of landslides, as the earthquake may have loosened soil already saturated by heavy rainfall that occurred on Saturday.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Channel NewsAsia.
