No Tsunami Threat After Magnitude 7.2 Earthquake Strikes Off Japan’s Northern Coast

On Thursday, a powerful earthquake struck off Japan’s northern coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed its magnitude at 7.2, after upgrading it from an initial reading of 6.9. The earthquake occurred off the eastern coast of Iwate and was recorded at a depth of approximately 50 kilometers (30 miles). For accuracy, the U.S. Geological Survey also reported the quake with a magnitude of 6.9.

This region has experienced several strong earthquakes recently, including one that resulted in a weeklong advisory in December. During Thursday’s morning rush hour, the earthquake mildly affected Tokyo as well. No injuries or damage were immediately reported, according to government spokesperson Minoru Kihara.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized her government’s priority on safety. Her emergency team is actively collecting information and preparing for potential relief efforts. She advised residents in impacted areas to stay cautious of possible aftershocks.

An account from Tomoko Nagane, a primary school principal in Hashikami town, shared with NHK detailed her experience during the quake alert. Driving at the time, she noticed a moderate sideways shaking. Despite some students feeling frightened, all children returned home safely as the school canceled classes for the day.

Reports from several towns, including Sendai and Morioka, indicated the shaking lasted for a few minutes but showed no visible damage. People appeared to resume their daily activities. In response, the East Japan Railway Co. suspended some train services for safety evaluations.

Nuclear facilities, such as the Fukushima Daiichi plant—damaged in the massive 2011 quake—and a spent fuel reprocessing plant in Aomori, reported no disturbances following the earthquake, according to Kihara.

Japan remains vigilant due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the most earthquake-prone countries globally.