6.2 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northern Japan, PM Sanae Takaichi Urges Vigilance

Tokyo: A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck parts of northern Japan on Monday morning. There have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged residents to remain alert.

According to Japan Meteorological Agency, no tsunami advisory has been issued. The United States Geological Survey reported that the quake struck at a depth of about 81 kilometers, approximately 18 kilometers west of Sarabetsu, a small town on Hokkaido. The USGS measured the earthquake at a magnitude of 6.1.

In a post on the social media platform X, Takaichi stated that the epicenter was located in the southern Tokachi region of Hokkaido around 5:24 a.m. The strongest tremors, rated at lower 5 on Japan’s seismic intensity scale, were felt in Urahoro town. She also reassured that there is no risk of a tsunami.

The Prime Minister further said that immediately after the quake, the government activated the Prime Minister’s Office Crisis Management Center and Communication Room. Authorities are working to assess the situation and provide accurate information to the public. Residents in heavily affected areas have been advised to stay cautious, as aftershocks of similar intensity may occur.

Officials also warned of potential hazards such as falling rocks and landslides in areas that experienced strong tremors. The monitoring agency indicated a high likelihood of similar earthquakes in the region over the coming weeks.

Notably, about a week ago, Japan experienced a stronger earthquake measuring 7.7 magnitude, after which authorities issued an advisory about an increased risk of a potential megaquake along the country’s northeastern coastal regions.

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