A magnitude-6.1 earthquake strikes off the coast of Japan’s Iwate Prefecture early Sunday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The quake occurs at about 7:25 a.m. local time, with a reported depth of around 40 kilometers (about 25 miles). Shaking is felt across Iwate and neighboring areas, including Aomori Prefecture. Multiple outlets report that no tsunami warning is issued, and there are no immediate reports of damage or casualties. Officials urge residents to remain vigilant as the region continues to experience seismic activity.
The earthquake comes days after other significant tremors in and near northeastern Japan. Sources cite a 7.2-magnitude quake that occurred on Thursday in an area close to Sunday’s epicenter; the magnitude was revised upward from an initial estimate. Authorities also warn that additional earthquakes may follow.
With Japan in typhoon season, the quake-related concern highlighted by outlets focuses on the potential for landslides and mudslides in the affected region, given that heavy rain can exacerbate slope instability during ongoing seismic activity.
