5.9-magnitude quake shakes central Japan; 37 injured, Tokyo-area rail service disrupted
At least 37 people were injured and train services were interrupted after an early-morning 5.9 quake near Tokyo.
A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck the Tokyo metropolitan area early this morning, injuring at least 37 people and disrupting rail services around the capital.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said the quake was registered at around 2 a.m. local time, with an epicenter in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, near Tokyo, at a depth of 68 kilometers.
Rail operators in Tokyo suspended or delayed services after the tremor, though there were no reports of major structural damage across the city. Authorities reported minor damage to a building in Saitama, north of Tokyo, and are investigating whether a burst water pipe in Tokyo is connected to the quake.
Authorities warn of secondary hazards
The JMA warned of an increased risk of landslides in the affected area because it was hit by heavy rain yesterday, and said strong aftershocks are possible in the coming days. Emergency services remain on alert and are carrying out inspections of infrastructure.
Local officials are continuing to assess the extent of injuries and damage. So far the incident has not produced widespread material destruction, but officials urged residents in unstable slopes and older buildings to exercise caution during the next 48–72 hours.
Photo: press material from the event
