In Japan, an earthquake of magnitude 6.9 hit northern part of the country this morning. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said the epicentre was 50 kilometres deep off the coast of Iwate Prefecture. The quake registered a rare upper 6 on the Japanese seismic intensity scale of 7 in the town of Hashikami, Aomori Prefecture. An upper 6 is when people can only crawl and are unable to walk during an earthquake.

 

A mild quake was also felt in Tokyo. However, no tsunami warning has been issued, and no casualties have been reported as well.  

 

Meanwhile, Japan’s Prime Minister’s Office has set up a task force over the quake. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has asked residents of the affected areas to remain vigilant for the possibility of another earthquake of similar intensity.