Magnitude 7.2 quake hits off northern Japan, no tsunami warning issued

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake occurred off the eastern coast of Iwate prefecture on Thursday morning, the Japan Meteorological Agency said, revising an initial estimate of 6.9. The quake originated at a depth of about 50 kilometres (30 miles). The U.S. Geological Survey recorded a magnitude of 6.9 for the same event.

The tremor was felt across Japan's northeastern region and was lightly perceptible in Tokyo during the morning rush hour. Government spokesperson Minoru Kihara said there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told reporters that the emergency team was prioritising safety while assessing the situation and preparing possible relief measures, and she advised residents to remain cautious of aftershocks.

In the town of Hashikami, Aomori prefecture, primary-school principal Tomoko Nagane said she experienced moderate sideways shaking while driving and that children at school were safe, though some were frightened. Classes were cancelled for the day and all students were later sent home.

Local media reported that residents in cities such as Sendai and Morioka felt shaking for a few minutes but observed no damage. The East Japan Railway Company suspended some bullet-train and local services for safety inspections. Nuclear facilities, including the Fukushima Daiichi plant and a spent-fuel reprocessing plant in Aomori, reported no abnormalities.