Moderate Earthquake Strikes Eastern Japan

An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.9 struck eastern Japan on Sunday, affecting areas including Tokyo. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported the epicenter in southern Ibaraki prefecture at a depth of 70 kilometers. The U.S. Geological Survey measured the quake at 5.8 magnitude.

Officials reported 37 injured individuals across five prefectures. Tokyo recorded 15 injuries, Saitama 9, Kanagawa 8, Chiba 4, and Ibaraki 1. Many injuries occurred as people fell or collided with furniture during the quake. In Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture, an elderly woman suffered a serious hip injury.

Transportation disruptions included express train delays to Tokyo and Narita Airport, but Shinkansen bullet trains were unaffected. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced a task force to evaluate damage.

Residents received emergency alerts on mobile phones. The Japan Meteorological Agency advised caution for potential aftershocks. NHK television showed normal traffic conditions in cities like Mito and Saitama.

A water pipe broke in Tokyo’s Koto ward, flooding the road, but was swiftly repaired. No issues were reported at nuclear power facilities, according to the Nuclear Regulation Authority.

Last month, Kumamoto area experienced a magnitude 7.1 earthquake, resulting in 38 deaths and 364 injuries.