HomeUSNorthern Japan Rocked by Powerful 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake

Northern Japan Rocked by Powerful 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake

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Early Monday, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake rattled northern Japan, with authorities reporting no significant damage or casualties.

The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that there was no need to issue a tsunami advisory following the tremor.


Steam rises out of a power station protected by a tsunami sea wall in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture on April 27, 2026.
Steam rises out of a power station protected by a tsunami sea wall in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture on April 27, 2026. AFP via Getty Images

The earthquake’s epicenter was located 11 miles west of Sarabetsu, a small town on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island. The US Geological Survey noted that the quake originated at a depth of 50 miles beneath the surface, registering a magnitude of 6.1.

Just a week prior, a 7.7 magnitude offshore quake had led Japan to warn of a slightly elevated risk of a megaquake along the northeastern coast, prompting increased vigilance in the region.

A week ago, a 7.7 magnitude offshore earthquake prompted Japan to issue an advisory of a slightly higher risk of a possible megaquake for the nation’s northeastern coastal areas.


A bulletin board at JR Obihiro Station announces the suspension of train services due to the effects of an earthquake in Obihiro City, Hokkaido Prefecture on April 27, 2026.
A bulletin board at JR Obihiro Station announces the suspension of train services due to the effects of an earthquake in Obihiro City, Hokkaido Prefecture on April 27, 2026. JIJI PRESS/AFP via Getty Images

The JMA said Monday’s quake was outside of the area subject to a megaquake advisory and that the special awareness week is set to end as planned.

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