Hokkaido (Japan)— A strong earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck eastern Hokkaido in northern Japan early Saturday morning, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
The quake’s epicentre was located southeast of the Nemuro Peninsula at a depth of around 40 kilometres. Despite the significant magnitude, there were no immediate reports of casualties or property damage. Authorities have also confirmed that the tremor did not pose any tsunami threat.
Japan’s Kyodo News Agency reported that the quake, which hit at 1:40 a.m., recorded an intensity just below 5 on the country’s seven-point seismic scale in certain parts of the northern island.
Following the earthquake, Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency issued an emergency alert, predicting potential shaking of up to level 5 on the Japanese intensity scale. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, while residents have been advised to stay alert for possible aftershocks.
