Quake Shakes Hokkaido: Magnitude 6.2 Hits Northern Japan
Quake Shakes Hokkaido: Magnitude 6.2 Hits Northern Japan
A powerful earthquake measuring around 6.1-6.2 struck near the town of Sarabetsu in Hokkaido, Japan, prompting emergency checks with no tsunami alert issued.
A strong earthquake rocked Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, centered roughly 18 kilometers west of the small town of Sarabetsu, with a depth of about 81 kilometers. The tremor was measured around magnitude 6.1-6.2 as it rattled homes and offices across the region.
Residents reported shaking that lasted several seconds, with some feeling the ground tremble in cities and towns across northern Hokkaido.
There was no tsunami alert issued for the area, and authorities said initial damage reports were limited as teams began rapid assessments.
Power grids and critical infrastructure were checked as a precaution, with officials asking people to stay away from damaged structures and to monitor official channels for updates.
Seismologists warned aftershocks could continue in the coming days, noting that regions around Hokkaido remain susceptible to further quakes of similar magnitude.
The event adds to ongoing concerns about seismic activity in northern Japan, underscoring the importance of preparedness and swift emergency response in the region.