Tokyo: A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Hokkaido in the early hours of Monday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The tremor occurred at 05:24 JST (01:54 IST) and registered a seismic intensity of “5+” in the central Tokachi region, with nearby areas recording “5-” on Japan’s scale.
Authorities have urged residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks and to follow official safety advisories. As per Kyodo News, no tsunami warning has been issued so far, and there are no immediate reports of major damage or casualties.
Recent Stronger Quake Raised Concerns
The latest quake comes days after a more powerful tremor—initially measured at 7.4 and later revised to 7.5—hit northeastern Japan on April 20. That earthquake, occurring at a depth of 10 km, triggered tsunami warnings along coastal regions of Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate.
An 80-centimetre tsunami was recorded at Kuji port in Iwate, highlighting the potential risks associated with seismic activity in the region.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Public broadcaster NHK had reported that tsunami waves of up to 3 metres were forecast following the April 20 quake. Despite the intensity, no abnormalities were detected at key nuclear facilities, including Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, Fukushima Daini Nuclear Power Plant, Onagawa Nuclear Power Plant, and Higashidori Nuclear Power Plant.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi had earlier urged residents in affected coastal areas to move to higher ground as a precaution.
Additionally, the East Japan Railway Company temporarily suspended services on the Tohoku Shinkansen between Tokyo and Shin-Aomori following the stronger quake.
Ongoing Monitoring
Japan, located along the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences earthquakes. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have advised citizens to stay prepared and informed through official channels.
