A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake has struck southwestern Japan, killing at least 13 people and leaving widespread destruction across Kumamoto Prefecture. The quake toppled buildings, damaged roads and bridges, derailed a cargo train, and sparked multiple fires. Authorities say a gas leak likely triggered a deadly explosion at a shopping mall, where several people remain missing.

Around 300,000 residents have been urged to evacuate as strong aftershocks continue to shake the region. Rescue teams, supported by Japan's military, are carrying out search and relief operations while officials assess the damage. The historic Kumamoto Castle has also suffered fresh damage, years after the devastating 2016 earthquakes.

Japan Hit by Devastating 7.1 Earthquake | Death Toll Rises, Rescue Operations Underway

Japanese authorities gave final approval on Monday (Dec 22) to restart the world's largest nuclear power plant, which had been out of operation for nearly 15 years after the Fukushima nuclear disaster, which led the country to shut down all of its 54 nuclear power stations. With the move, Japan intends to shift its energy dependence away from more costly and polluting fossil fuels.&nbsp;The nod to resume operations at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant, situated about 220km northwest of Tokyo, came after a series of inspections and Niigata prefectural assembly's vote, as the Japanese remain cautious after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami destroyed the Fukushima Daiichi plant in the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl.&nbsp;Since 2011, Japan has restarted 14 of the 33 nuclear reactors that remain operable. The Niigata plant will be the first plant to be operated by Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO), the company which ran the crippled Fukushima plant.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melania-trump-link-in-epstein-files-first-lady-s-documentary-director-brett-ratner-in-new-photos-released-1766387633331">Melania Trump link in Epstein files: First Lady’s documentary director Brett Ratner in new photos released</a>&nbsp;Before the Fukushima meltdown, the nuclear reactors powered around 30 per cent of Japan's electricity needs. Since then, Tokyo has increased its dependence on costly imported fossil fuels, including coal and gas, to fulfil its energy requirements. Imported fossil fuels contribute approximately 60-70 per cent to Japan's power generation and have put a strain on the country's budget, costing $68 billion in the previous year alone. Japan's move away from fossils also aligns with its increasing energy demand to power data centres, vital to AI infrastructure and its goal to reach net zero emissions in 2050, as Japan ranks the World's fifth largest emitter of carbon dioxide after China, the United States, India and Russia.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h2>Fukushima disaster</h2>The Fukushima nuclear disaster occurred in March 2011 after a magnitude 9.0–9.1 earthquake, the strongest ever recorded in Japan, triggered a devastating tsunami that struck the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.&nbsp;&nbsp;Flooding disabled backup generators and cooling systems, leading to reactor meltdowns, hydrogen explosions, and radioactive releases. The crisis forced mass evacuations, contaminated land and water, and reshaped Japan’s nuclear energy policy. &nbsp;

Japan’s decision comes as it seeks to move away from costly and more polluting imported fossil fuels towards clean and economical nuclear energy amid rising energy demand.


Japanese authorities gave final approval on Monday (Dec 22) to restart the world's largest nuclear power plant, which had been out of operation for nearly 15 years after the Fukushima nuclear disaster, which led the country to shut down all of its 54 nuclear power stations. With the move, Japan intends to shift its energy dependence away from more costly and polluting fossil fuels. The nod to resume operations at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant, situated about 220km northwest of Tokyo, came after a series of inspections and Niigata prefectural assembly's vote, as the Japanese remain cautious after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami destroyed the Fukushima Daiichi plant in the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl. Since 2011, Japan has restarted 14 of the 33 nuclear reactors that remain operable. The Niigata plant will be the first plant to be operated by Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO), the company which ran the crippled Fukushima plant. Also Read: Melania Trump link in Epstein files: First Lady’s documentary director Brett Ratner in new photos released Before the Fukushima meltdown, the nuclear reactors powered around 30 per cent of Japan's electricity needs. Since then, Tokyo has increased its dependence on costly imported fossil fuels, including coal and gas, to fulfil its energy requirements. Imported fossil fuels contribute approximately 60-70 per cent to Japan's power generation and have put a strain on the country's budget, costing $68 billion in the previous year alone. Japan's move away from fossils also aligns with its increasing energy demand to power data centres, vital to AI infrastructure and its goal to reach net zero emissions in 2050, as Japan ranks the World's fifth largest emitter of carbon dioxide after China, the United States, India and Russia. Fukushima disaster The Fukushima nuclear disaster occurred in March 2011 after a magnitude 9.0–9.1 earthquake, the strongest ever recorded in Japan, triggered a devastating tsunami that struck the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Flooding disabled backup generators and cooling systems, leading to reactor meltdowns, hydrogen explosions, and radioactive releases. The crisis forced mass evacuations, contaminated land and water, and reshaped Japan’s nuclear energy policy.

Japan’s decision comes as it seeks to move away from costly and more polluting imported fossil fuels towards clean and economical nuclear energy amid rising energy demand.

Japan set to restart world’s largest nuclear power plant, 15 years after Fukushima disaster

Another earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck Japan on Friday (Dec 12), days after a 7.5 magnitude jolted the same region, injuring at least 50 people. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said that the quake occurred 130 kilometres (81 miles) off the city of Kuji in Iwate prefecture on the main island of Honshu. The Japan Meteorological Agency earlier warned of tsunami waves of up to one metre (three feet), which could hit the northern Pacific coastline. However, the advisory was lifted later.The agency said that two 2-centimetre waves were spotted, one in the town of Erimo on the main northern island of Hokkaido at 12:35 pm local time, and another three minutes later in the Aomori region.Meanwhile, the Nuclear Regulation Authority on Friday said that there were no immediate signs of abnormalities in nuclear facilities in the region.Broadcaster NHK reported that the level of shaking during the recent quake was less than the one that happened late Monday, which resulted in widespread chaos and triggered tsunami waves of up to 70 centimetres. Videos shared on social media showed items getting knocked off shelves, roads being damaged due to the strong earthquake.Following the 7.5 magnitude quake, JMA had issued a rare special advisory, warning of another seismic event of similar or greater magnitude possible for another week. The warning mentioned the Sanriku area on the northeastern tip of Japan’s main island of Honshu and the northern island of Hokkaido, which faces the Pacific.Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active countries. The island nation lies on top of four major tectonic plates along the western edge of the Pacific “Ring of Fire”. With a population of about 125 million people, Japan experiences about 1,500 earthquakes every year and accounts for about 18 per cent of the earthquakes in the world.In 2011, the country was struck by a massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake, which triggered a tsunami. About 18,500 people were killed or went missing in the disaster.In August 2024, the JMA issued a “megaquake” warning along the Nankai Trough and a subsequent tsunami that could kill as many as 298,000 people and result in damages of up to $2 trillion.

Following the 7.5 magnitude quake, JMA had issued a rare special advisory, warning of another seismic event of similar or greater magnitude possible for another week. 

Another earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck Japan on Friday (Dec 12), days after a 7.5 magnitude jolted the same region, injuring at least 50 people. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said that the quake occurred 130 kilometres (81 miles) off the city of Kuji in Iwate prefecture on the main island of Honshu. The Japan Meteorological Agency earlier warned of tsunami waves of up to one metre (three feet), which could hit the northern Pacific coastline. However, the advisory was lifted later. The agency said that two 2-centimetre waves were spotted, one in the town of Erimo on the main northern island of Hokkaido at 12:35 pm local time, and another three minutes later in the Aomori region. Meanwhile, the Nuclear Regulation Authority on Friday said that there were no immediate signs of abnormalities in nuclear facilities in the region. Broadcaster NHK reported that the level of shaking during the recent quake was less than the one that happened late Monday, which resulted in widespread chaos and triggered tsunami waves of up to 70 centimetres. Videos shared on social media showed items getting knocked off shelves, roads being damaged due to the strong earthquake. Following the 7.5 magnitude quake, JMA had issued a rare special advisory, warning of another seismic event of similar or greater magnitude possible for another week. The warning mentioned the Sanriku area on the northeastern tip of Japan’s main island of Honshu and the northern island of Hokkaido, which faces the Pacific. Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active countries. The island nation lies on top of four major tectonic plates along the western edge of the Pacific “Ring of Fire”. With a population of about 125 million people, Japan experiences about 1,500 earthquakes every year and accounts for about 18 per cent of the earthquakes in the world. In 2011, the country was struck by a massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake, which triggered a tsunami. About 18,500 people were killed or went missing in the disaster. In August 2024, the JMA issued a “megaquake” warning along the Nankai Trough and a subsequent tsunami that could kill as many as 298,000 people and result in damages of up to $2 trillion.

Following the 7.5 magnitude quake, JMA had issued a rare special advisory, warning of another seismic event of similar or greater magnitude possible for another week.&nbsp;

Japan earthquake: Another quake of 6.7 magnitude strikes region days after 7.5 tremor

In the wake of the formidable New Year's Day earthquake, Japan's Noto Peninsula reportedly underwent a dramatic metamorphosis, which is vividly depicted in newly released satellite imagery. The&nbsp;images have captured some profound alterations to the Japanese coastline that now stands extended by up to 820 feet.

<h2>Striking images</h2>

Satellite snapshots, juxtaposing the landscape pre and post-quake, unveil the remarkable uplift effect that stretched the coastline by an impressive 820 feet (250 meters)—a span exceeding the length of two American football fields.&nbsp;

Shared on X (previously Twitter) by Nahel Belgherze, images show sections of the Noto Peninsula where the seafloor emerged above the waterline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-japan-earthquake-reaches-126-as-harsh-weather-conditions-hamper-rescue-efforts-677209" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-japan-earthquake-reaches-126-as-harsh-weather-conditions-hamper-rescue-efforts-677209&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Death toll in Japan earthquake reaches 126 as harsh weather conditions hamper rescue efforts</a>

Posting a GIF of the images, Belgherze wrote: "The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift."

Watch it here:

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The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift. <a href="https://t.co/XpxBMLRTUU">pic.twitter.com/XpxBMLRTUU</a>
— Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) <a href="https://twitter.com/WxNB_/status/1742967417616138539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The earthquake struck Japan on January 1 at around 2:10 am EST (0710 GMT), registering a magnitude of 7.6. It triggered evacuations along the impacted coastal zones that witnessed a substantial uplift.

<h2>Scientists confirm uplift</h2>

Researchers from the Earthquake Research Institute at the University of Tokyo, conducting field investigations, reported findings of coseismic coastal uplift along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula. Notably, evidence was detected at ten locations, spanning from Kaiso to Akasaki sites.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan earthquake: One week later, quake-hit residents of a Japanese village live in limbo

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"During a field investigation along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula, we found evidence at 10 locations, from Kaiso to Akasaki sites, of coseismic coastal uplift related to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake (M7.6)," said the researchers in a statement.

"The pattern of estimated coseismic coastal uplift appears to be decreasing southward from Kaiso to Akasaki," they added, as quoted by space.com.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-death-toll-rises-to-161-more-than-100-missing-days-after-76-magnitude-earthquake-677676" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-death-toll-rises-to-161-more-than-100-missing-days-after-76-magnitude-earthquake-677676&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZj4iIsNiDAxV_s1YBHSlHBSIQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Japan earthquake: Death toll rises to 161, number of missing crosses 320</a>

The repercussions extended to Akasaki port, where nearly 14-foot-high (4.2 meters) tsunami&nbsp;wreaked havoc, as indicated by water stains on building walls spotted during the university's field investigations.

Adding another layer to the comprehensive documentation of this geological event, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Advanced Land Observing Satellite-2 (ALOS-2) offered a bird's-eye view of the coastal transformation.

By comparing coastline images from June 2023 to January 2, the satellite revealed significant seaward shifts in various areas, encompassing the Nafune port, Wajima city, and Minazuki bay, as outlined by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of the formidable New Year's Day earthquake, Japan's Noto Peninsula reportedly underwent a dramatic metamorphosis, which is vividly depicted in newly released satellite imagery.

In the wake of the formidable New Year's Day earthquake, Japan's Noto Peninsula reportedly underwent a dramatic metamorphosis, which is vividly depicted in newly released satellite imagery. The images have captured some profound alterations to the Japanese coastline that now stands extended by up to 820 feet. Striking images Satellite snapshots, juxtaposing the landscape pre and post-quake, unveil the remarkable uplift effect that stretched the coastline by an impressive 820 feet (250 meters)—a span exceeding the length of two American football fields. Shared on X (previously Twitter) by Nahel Belgherze, images show sections of the Noto Peninsula where the seafloor emerged above the waterline. Also read | Death toll in Japan earthquake reaches 126 as harsh weather conditions hamper rescue efforts Posting a GIF of the images, Belgherze wrote: "The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift." Watch it here: The earthquake that struck Japan’s Noto peninsula on Monday was so strong that the coastline has moved up to 250 meters offshore due to significant land uplift. pic.twitter.com/XpxBMLRTUU — Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) January 4, 2024 × The earthquake struck Japan on January 1 at around 2:10 am EST (0710 GMT), registering a magnitude of 7.6. It triggered evacuations along the impacted coastal zones that witnessed a substantial uplift. Scientists confirm uplift Researchers from the Earthquake Research Institute at the University of Tokyo, conducting field investigations, reported findings of coseismic coastal uplift along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula. Notably, evidence was detected at ten locations, spanning from Kaiso to Akasaki sites. Watch | Japan earthquake: One week later, quake-hit residents of a Japanese village live in limbo × "During a field investigation along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula, we found evidence at 10 locations, from Kaiso to Akasaki sites, of coseismic coastal uplift related to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake (M7.6)," said the researchers in a statement. "The pattern of estimated coseismic coastal uplift appears to be decreasing southward from Kaiso to Akasaki," they added, as quoted by space.com. Also read | Japan earthquake: Death toll rises to 161, number of missing crosses 320 The repercussions extended to Akasaki port, where nearly 14-foot-high (4.2 meters) tsunami wreaked havoc, as indicated by water stains on building walls spotted during the university's field investigations. Adding another layer to the comprehensive documentation of this geological event, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Advanced Land Observing Satellite-2 (ALOS-2) offered a bird's-eye view of the coastal transformation. By comparing coastline images from June 2023 to January 2, the satellite revealed significant seaward shifts in various areas, encompassing the Nafune port, Wajima city, and Minazuki bay, as outlined by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan. (With inputs from agencies)

New Year's Day quake stretched a Japanese peninsula coastline by over 800 feet

The death count from Japan's New Year's Day earthquake has crossed count of 120, with more than 200 people still missing. The magnitude 7.6 earthquake that struck Japan's west coast destroyed infrastructure, leaving 23,000 homes without power in the Hokuriku region.

Japan Earthquake Aftermath: Death count crosses 120, over 200 people missing

Insured losses from the devastating earthquake in Japan could reach $6.4 billion, according to an estimate from US-based catastrophe modeling firm Karen Clark & Co (KCC). At least 98 people were killed in the earthquake, and hundreds of others were reported injured or missing.

Japan earthquake losses to touch $6.4 bn, death toll rises to 98

Japan earthquake death toll rises to 94, with 222 missing. Thousands of rescuers from all over Japan have been battling aftershocks and blocked roads.

Japan Earthquake: Rescuers race against time to find survivors, death toll rises to 94

The new year started on a sombre&nbsp;note for Japan&nbsp;as at approximately 4:10 pm on January 1, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook the Noto Peninsula, located on the west coast of the quake-prone country.

What makes this earthquake particularly unexpected is its occurrence on the west coast of the country, as opposed to the east, which has experienced the most earthquakes in the history of Japan.

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Map showing the epicentre of the the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that hit Japan on Jan 1. Map credit: AFP

"In the last 125 years, the Ishikawa Prefecture has seen about 30 earthquakes in the region, and they have not been major ones. In its entire documented history, this is the largest earthquake to have occurred on the west coast," Dr Kusala Rajendran, a national award-winning seismologist and a retired earth sciences professor from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, told WION.

The tremors of this earthquake reverberated as far as Tokyo, situated 300 km (185 miles) away.

But what makes Japan so prone to earthquakes?

<h2>The tectonic plate mechanism</h2>

Earthquakes occur when two tectonic plates collide, and one slides beneath the other, resulting in the sudden release of energy.

"Japan is located on four major tectonic plates - the Pacific plate, North American plate, Philippine plate, and the Eurasian plate," Dr Rajendran said.

The existence of these four plates, grinding against each other, makes the region very complex.

However, the Noto earthquake serves as a testament to the cultivation of resilience. The impact could have been far more devastating if not for Japan's dedicated focus on mitigating disaster risks.

According to Dr Rajendran, the death toll has exceeded 100 solely because the earthquake occurred on the west coast. If it had happened on the east coast, where Tokyo is situated, measures could have been taken more effectively to handle or reduce the toll.&nbsp;

But in general, Japan heavily invests in preventive measures, using advanced early-warning systems that transmit alerts about significant earthquakes to mobile phones and TVs, occasionally interrupting live broadcasts.

In February 2022, Turkey faced a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that tragically claimed over 59,000 lives. The strikingly lower casualty count in Japan, despite experiencing a quake of comparable magnitude, highlights the effectiveness of Japan's progressive resilience-building efforts over time, distinguishing it from other nations.

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Local governments and businesses engage in thorough disaster planning and training. In response to the disaster, Ishikawa Prefecture, covering the Noto Peninsula, swiftly established a Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters.

By the afternoon of January 2, NHK's broadcasts displayed images of emergency responders assessing damage and residents receiving aid from relief workers.

Concurrently, amidst ongoing recovery efforts, many New Year traditions persisted. On Japanese Twitter (now X), the leading trending topic early on January 2 was the Hakone Ekiden, an annual long-distance race.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-earthquake-sent-ripple-effect-across-world-got-recorded-within-minutes-676564">Also read |&nbsp;Japan earthquake was registered in several other countries within minutes, even Alaska</a>

JR East, responsible for operating trains in the quake-affected regions, had its bullet-train lines operational again by 3 pm on January 2—less than 24 hours after the earthquake struck.

If there is a large earthquake in the Himalayan range, which Dr Rajendran says is overdue, the Delhi NCR region is going to face a big problem owing to the fact that most of its high-rise buildings and metro pillars stand on soft alluvial soil, which is a pile-up of sediments transported by river.

"The Japan earthquake is a reminder for everyone to make earthquake education&nbsp;and preparedness a priority," Dr Rajendran reminds with caution.

The new year started on a sombre note for Japan as at approximately 4:10 pm on January 1, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook the Noto Peninsula, located on the west coast of the quake-prone country.

The new year started on a sombre note for Japan as at approximately 4:10 pm on January 1, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook the Noto Peninsula, located on the west coast of the quake-prone country. What makes this earthquake particularly unexpected is its occurrence on the west coast of the country, as opposed to the east, which has experienced the most earthquakes in the history of Japan. Map showing the epicentre of the the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that hit Japan on Jan 1. Map credit: AFP "In the last 125 years, the Ishikawa Prefecture has seen about 30 earthquakes in the region, and they have not been major ones. In its entire documented history, this is the largest earthquake to have occurred on the west coast," Dr Kusala Rajendran, a national award-winning seismologist and a retired earth sciences professor from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, told WION. The tremors of this earthquake reverberated as far as Tokyo, situated 300 km (185 miles) away. But what makes Japan so prone to earthquakes? The tectonic plate mechanism Earthquakes occur when two tectonic plates collide, and one slides beneath the other, resulting in the sudden release of energy. "Japan is located on four major tectonic plates - the Pacific plate, North American plate, Philippine plate, and the Eurasian plate," Dr Rajendran said. The existence of these four plates, grinding against each other, makes the region very complex. However, the Noto earthquake serves as a testament to the cultivation of resilience. The impact could have been far more devastating if not for Japan's dedicated focus on mitigating disaster risks. According to Dr Rajendran, the death toll has exceeded 100 solely because the earthquake occurred on the west coast. If it had happened on the east coast, where Tokyo is situated, measures could have been taken more effectively to handle or reduce the toll. But in general, Japan heavily invests in preventive measures, using advanced early-warning systems that transmit alerts about significant earthquakes to mobile phones and TVs, occasionally interrupting live broadcasts. In February 2022, Turkey faced a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that tragically claimed over 59,000 lives. The strikingly lower casualty count in Japan, despite experiencing a quake of comparable magnitude, highlights the effectiveness of Japan's progressive resilience-building efforts over time, distinguishing it from other nations. × Local governments and businesses engage in thorough disaster planning and training. In response to the disaster, Ishikawa Prefecture, covering the Noto Peninsula, swiftly established a Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters. By the afternoon of January 2, NHK's broadcasts displayed images of emergency responders assessing damage and residents receiving aid from relief workers. Concurrently, amidst ongoing recovery efforts, many New Year traditions persisted. On Japanese Twitter (now X), the leading trending topic early on January 2 was the Hakone Ekiden, an annual long-distance race. Also read | Japan earthquake was registered in several other countries within minutes, even Alaska JR East, responsible for operating trains in the quake-affected regions, had its bullet-train lines operational again by 3 pm on January 2—less than 24 hours after the earthquake struck. If there is a large earthquake in the Himalayan range, which Dr Rajendran says is overdue, the Delhi NCR region is going to face a big problem owing to the fact that most of its high-rise buildings and metro pillars stand on soft alluvial soil, which is a pile-up of sediments transported by river. "The Japan earthquake is a reminder for everyone to make earthquake education and preparedness a priority," Dr Rajendran reminds with caution.

Data Lab: Japan felt its biggest west coast quake in 125 years, but it wasn’t a replay of Turkey’s tragedy

The death toll from a series of powerful earthquakes in Japan on New Year's day has now risen to 78 as the search for survivors under collapsed buildings continues for the fourth day.

Japan Earthquake: Search for survivors enters Day 4; death toll rises to 78

A strong 6.2 magnitude earthquake (on the Richter scale) struck eastern Tokyo city in Japan on Friday, local media reported citing the meteorological agency.&nbsp;

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The epicentre was recorded at a depth of 50 kilometres off eastern Chiba Prefecture on Friday at 7.03 pm (10.03 GMT).&nbsp; No tsunami warning has been issued so far.

The quake was felt strongly in the capital Tokyo city, forcing railway officials to briefly stop train services in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily. Tremors were also felt in&nbsp;the adjoining areas of Chiba and Ibaraki prefectures, the Japanese Times newspaper reported.

Train services were stopped briefly in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily when the tremors started.

The nuclear plants were also left largely unscathed by the temblor, with no abnormalities being detected, the national nuclear authority said.

As Tokyo residents felt shaking, the nation's advance warning system for earthquakes prompted television networks to alert the arrival of a potentially large eartquake.

"It was like being on a boat floating on water -- sideways rocking that seemed to go on for more than 30 seconds," said a presenter on public broadcaster NHK.&nbsp;There were no immediate reports of major damage.&nbsp;

<h2>Gravitas | Indonesia earthquake: Is the Pacific region exploding?</h2>

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Japan has strict construction regulations intended to ensure buildings can withstand strong quakes, and routinely holds emergency drills to prepare people for major disasters.

Friday’s tremors come just three weeks after a magnitude 6.5 quake was reported off Ishikawa Prefecture, killing one man and injuring several others.

Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active areas, accounting for about one-fifth of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6 or greater. Hence, such temblors are pretty common in the Asian country.

It recorded its strongest quake in March 2011 after a massive 9 magnitude struck the northeast coast, triggering a massive tsunami that&nbsp;left around 18,500 people dead or missing.

The 2011 tsunami also sent three reactors into meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant, causing Japan's worst post-war disaster and the most serious nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986.

The Japanese capital was devastated by a huge earthquake a century&nbsp;ago&nbsp;in&nbsp;1923.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A strong 6.2 magnitude earthquake (on the Richter scale) struck eastern Tokyo city in Japan on Friday, local media reported citing the meteorological agency. The epicentre was recorded at a depth of 50 kilometres off eastern Chiba Prefecture on Friday at 7.

A strong 6.2 magnitude earthquake (on the Richter scale) struck eastern Tokyo city in Japan on Friday, local media reported citing the meteorological agency. The epicentre was recorded at a depth of 50 kilometres off eastern Chiba Prefecture on Friday at 7.03 pm (10.03 GMT). No tsunami warning has been issued so far. The quake was felt strongly in the capital Tokyo city, forcing railway officials to briefly stop train services in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily. Tremors were also felt in the adjoining areas of Chiba and Ibaraki prefectures, the Japanese Times newspaper reported. Train services were stopped briefly in the area and runways at Narita Airport, an international gateway to Tokyo, were closed temporarily when the tremors started. The nuclear plants were also left largely unscathed by the temblor, with no abnormalities being detected, the national nuclear authority said. As Tokyo residents felt shaking, the nation's advance warning system for earthquakes prompted television networks to alert the arrival of a potentially large eartquake. "It was like being on a boat floating on water -- sideways rocking that seemed to go on for more than 30 seconds," said a presenter on public broadcaster NHK. There were no immediate reports of major damage. Gravitas | Indonesia earthquake: Is the Pacific region exploding? Japan has strict construction regulations intended to ensure buildings can withstand strong quakes, and routinely holds emergency drills to prepare people for major disasters. Friday’s tremors come just three weeks after a magnitude 6.5 quake was reported off Ishikawa Prefecture, killing one man and injuring several others. Japan is one of the world’s most seismically active areas, accounting for about one-fifth of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6 or greater. Hence, such temblors are pretty common in the Asian country. It recorded its strongest quake in March 2011 after a massive 9 magnitude struck the northeast coast, triggering a massive tsunami that left around 18,500 people dead or missing. The 2011 tsunami also sent three reactors into meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant, causing Japan's worst post-war disaster and the most serious nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986. The Japanese capital was devastated by a huge earthquake a century ago in 1923. (With inputs from agencies)

6.2 earthquake jolts Japan’s eastern coast, shakes buildings in Tokyo

Japan recorded more than 50 aftershocks on Saturday, a day after a powerful 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck the nation, killing one and leaving scores injured.

Japan’s disaster management agency said that approximately 55 aftershocks, some of them strong, hit on Saturday morning, as it warned that heavy rain could trigger landslides in affected areas.

The 6.5 magnitude quake hit the central Ishikawa region mid-afternoon on Friday at a depth of 12 kilometres (seven miles), according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

At least 23 people had been injured, the agency said. The deceased was identified as a 65-year-old man who he fell from a ladder during the earthquake.

"Our staff are out checking damage from the quake," an official from Suzu in Ishikawa prefecture, the hardest-hit city, told AFP.

Around 1,630 residents of Suzu have been evacuated, with about 250 taking shelter in evacuation centres, Jiji news agency reported late Saturday.

Over 100 households in the region were without running water as of Saturday afternoon, and roads were closed in many areas, the agency added.

The city had provided temporary public supplies after running water had turned brown in parts of the region, officials said earlier.

Clips surfaced online of the tremors showed a grocery shop strewn with broken wine bottles and other products that had fallen from shelves.

<h2>Gravitas: Earthquake jolts central Ishikawa region of Japan</h2>

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Some residents were seen clearing rubble in the rain after their wooden houses were partially destroyed.

"I asked a carpenter for a makeshift fix of the house, and the house is now covered with a blue tarp to protect it from rainwater," one man told public broadcaster NHK.

Bullet trains connecting Tokyo and Kanazawa in Ishikawa prefecture were temporarily halted on Friday for safety checks, but resumed with some delays, East Japan Railway Co said.

Train services in other regions were disrupted following the quake, as passengers were out during a public holiday in Japan, part of a run of days off known as “Golden Week” when many people travel for leisure or to visit family.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who recently returned from a tour to four African nations and Singapore, on Friday had expressed his condolences to the bereaved family.

"I express my heartfelt condolences to the person who died and offer my sympathies to those who were hit by the disaster," Kishida said.

"The government will continue taking measures with a sense of urgency while closely communicating with (officials) at the scene," Kishida told reporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan recorded more than 50 aftershocks on Saturday, a day after a powerful 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck the nation, killing one and leaving scores injured. Japan’s disaster management agency said that approximately 55 aftershocks, some of them strong, hit on Saturday morning, as it warned that heavy rain could trigger landslides in affected areas.

Japan recorded more than 50 aftershocks on Saturday, a day after a powerful 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck the nation, killing one and leaving scores injured. Japan’s disaster management agency said that approximately 55 aftershocks, some of them strong, hit on Saturday morning, as it warned that heavy rain could trigger landslides in affected areas. The 6.5 magnitude quake hit the central Ishikawa region mid-afternoon on Friday at a depth of 12 kilometres (seven miles), according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. At least 23 people had been injured, the agency said. The deceased was identified as a 65-year-old man who he fell from a ladder during the earthquake. "Our staff are out checking damage from the quake," an official from Suzu in Ishikawa prefecture, the hardest-hit city, told AFP. Around 1,630 residents of Suzu have been evacuated, with about 250 taking shelter in evacuation centres, Jiji news agency reported late Saturday. Over 100 households in the region were without running water as of Saturday afternoon, and roads were closed in many areas, the agency added. The city had provided temporary public supplies after running water had turned brown in parts of the region, officials said earlier. Clips surfaced online of the tremors showed a grocery shop strewn with broken wine bottles and other products that had fallen from shelves. Gravitas: Earthquake jolts central Ishikawa region of Japan Some residents were seen clearing rubble in the rain after their wooden houses were partially destroyed. "I asked a carpenter for a makeshift fix of the house, and the house is now covered with a blue tarp to protect it from rainwater," one man told public broadcaster NHK. Bullet trains connecting Tokyo and Kanazawa in Ishikawa prefecture were temporarily halted on Friday for safety checks, but resumed with some delays, East Japan Railway Co said. Train services in other regions were disrupted following the quake, as passengers were out during a public holiday in Japan, part of a run of days off known as “Golden Week” when many people travel for leisure or to visit family. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who recently returned from a tour to four African nations and Singapore, on Friday had expressed his condolences to the bereaved family. "I express my heartfelt condolences to the person who died and offer my sympathies to those who were hit by the disaster," Kishida said. "The government will continue taking measures with a sense of urgency while closely communicating with (officials) at the scene," Kishida told reporters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Over 50 aftershocks jolt Japan a day after powerful earthquake  

A strong undersea earthquake of 6.4 magnitude struck southeast of Tokyo on Friday morning, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said. However, there were no reports of injuries or damage.&nbsp; 
 
Japan Meteorological Agency measured the quake at a slightly higher than 6.5 magnitude, AFP reported. The agency added that there was no threat of Tsunami.&nbsp; 
 
The shallow quake hit at 09:14 am (0014 GMT), about 150 kilometres (90 miles) east-southeast of Katsuura city. The &nbsp;epicentre was reported about 226 kms (138 miles) southeast of the Japanese capital, Tokyo, at a shallow depth of 10 km (6 miles), according to Reuters.&nbsp; 
 
Japan&#39;s weather agency was quoted as saying by Reuters that there &nbsp;could be slight changes in the sea level.&nbsp; 
 
Earlier in April, two strong quakes had struck southern Japan&#39;s Kumamoto prefecture followed by more than 1,700 aftershocks, and left at least 50 dead, AFP observed.&nbsp; 
 
The international news agency further stressed in its report that Japan sits at the junction of four tectonic plates and experiences a number of relatively violent quakes every year. Rigid building codes, however, and their strict enforcement mean even strong tremors often do little damage. 
 
(WION with inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Following the strong quake, Japan Meteorological Agency said that there's no threat of Tsunami

A strong undersea earthquake of 6.4 magnitude struck southeast of Tokyo on Friday morning, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said. However, there were no reports of injuries or damage. Japan Meteorological Agency measured the quake at a slightly higher than 6.5 magnitude, AFP reported. The agency added that there was no threat of Tsunami. The shallow quake hit at 09:14 am (0014 GMT), about 150 kilometres (90 miles) east-southeast of Katsuura city. The epicentre was reported about 226 kms (138 miles) southeast of the Japanese capital, Tokyo, at a shallow depth of 10 km (6 miles), according to Reuters. Japan's weather agency was quoted as saying by Reuters that there could be slight changes in the sea level. Earlier in April, two strong quakes had struck southern Japan's Kumamoto prefecture followed by more than 1,700 aftershocks, and left at least 50 dead, AFP observed. The international news agency further stressed in its report that Japan sits at the junction of four tectonic plates and experiences a number of relatively violent quakes every year. Rigid building codes, however, and their strict enforcement mean even strong tremors often do little damage. (WION with inputs from agencies)

6.4 magnitude earthquake hits Japan, no damage reported?

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