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M5.5 Earthquake Shakes Eastern Japan, No Tsunami Warning

Automatic safety systems halted bullet trains, triggering inspections of nuclear, rail and power infrastructure.

Overview

  • The Japan Meteorological Agency gave a preliminary magnitude of 5.5 for the quake that struck at 7:46 p.m. Tuesday with its epicenter in southern Ibaraki Prefecture at about 50 kilometers depth.
  • JMA reported strong shaking that registered lower 5 on the Japanese intensity scale in Gunma and Saitama prefectures and intensity 4 in Ibaraki.
  • The agency said there was no tsunami danger and the Tokai No. 2 nuclear plant operator reported no anomalies after initial checks.
  • East Japan Railway Co. stopped Shinkansen services automatically for safety inspections and broadcasters reported power loss on parts of the Joetsu and Hokuriku lines as crews assess systems.
  • So far there are no reports of injuries or structural damage, but authorities are continuing inspections and residents should expect temporary travel and utility disruptions until checks finish.