A magnitude-6.1 earthquake struck off northeastern Japan early Sunday, days after a stronger temblor shook the same region and prompted authorities to warn residents to remain alert for more seismic activity.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said the latest quake hit off the coast of Iwate Prefecture at a depth of about 40 kilometers. No tsunami warning was issued, and there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
The tremor was felt in Aomori Prefecture and other nearby areas, adding to public concern in a region still recovering from a magnitude-7.2 earthquake that struck off Iwate on Thursday. That earlier quake was initially estimated at magnitude 6.9 before being revised upward by Japanese authorities.
Officials said Thursday’s quake caused injuries in parts of Aomori and Iwate and briefly disrupted transport services, including some bullet train and local rail operations, while safety checks were carried out. No serious injuries were reported.
Japan’s weather agency has warned that more quakes may follow, urging residents in affected areas to stay cautious. The warning comes as the country also faces seasonal weather risks, with recent typhoon-season rains raising concerns over possible mudslides in areas where slopes may have been weakened by repeated shaking.
The latest quake also followed a magnitude-5.6 tremor that shook Yamanashi Prefecture and nearby areas west of Tokyo on Friday, near Mount Fuji. Authorities have reported no abnormal volcanic activity linked to that quake.
Japan is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries because of its location along major tectonic boundaries. The northeast coast remains especially sensitive to offshore seismic activity after the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami, which triggered a major nuclear disaster.
Authorities are advising residents to monitor official updates, secure household items, prepare emergency supplies, and avoid areas vulnerable to landslides, especially during periods of heavy rain.