M6.2 Earthquake Shakes Japan’s Hokkaido
Kyodo/APP
Tokyo:A strong earthquake measuring magnitude 6.2 struck Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido early Monday, prompting brief transport disruptions but causing no major damage or casualties, authorities said.
The quake hit at 5:23 am local time and was centered in the Tokachi region at a depth of around 83 kilometers, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Officials confirmed that no tsunami warning was issued and clarified that the tremor was not linked to an ongoing advisory concerning heightened seismic risk in the region.
Seismic intensity reached upper 5 on Japan’s 7-point scale in some areas, strong enough to make walking difficult without support. Despite the intensity, there were no immediate reports of injuries or structural damage.
Utility operators reported no abnormalities at critical infrastructure, including the Tomari nuclear power plant, according to Hokkaido Electric Power Company.
Train services in parts of Hokkaido were temporarily suspended, although the Hokkaido Shinkansen continued normal operations, railway officials said.
The quake occurred just days after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Aomori Prefecture, raising concerns over elevated seismic activity in northern Japan. Hokkaido is among seven regions currently under a precautionary advisory for potential strong earthquakes.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government was closely monitoring the situation and collecting damage assessments, urging residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks. A government liaison office has been established to coordinate emergency response efforts.
Initial readings placed the quake at magnitude 6.1 before being revised upward to 6.2 by seismologists.
Despite the tremor’s strength, Japan’s disaster preparedness systems ensured rapid assessment and containment of risk, with no immediate escalation of emergency status.
