6.0 magnitude earthquake in Japan

Tokyo [Japan], Jul 7 (ANI): An earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter Scale jolted eastern Japan on Saturday, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.

The earthquake occurred at 8:23 pm (local time) and strong tremors were felt in various parts in eastern Japan, including Tokyo. No immediate warning of a tsunami was issued, according to the agency.

The epicentre of the quake was situated 50 km underground in the Pacific Ocean off Chiba Prefecture, the Japan Today reported.

In central Tokyo, some buildings swayed slightly during the tremors. However, there were no damages reported so far.

Operations at Narita Airport was affected for a brief while, as two runways were closed to check for any possible damage. The airport resumed its operations later, Japan Today reported, quoting an airport operator.

Also, there were no damages found at Tokai No. 2 Power Station, an off-line nuclear complex of Japan Atomic Power Company in Tokai village, Ibaraki Prefecture, the operator added.

Earlier on June 18, a 6.1 magnitude earthquake rattled the city of Osaka, western Japan, killing three and injuring over 200 people.

Japan is prone to frequent earthquakes and lies in the "Ring of Fire", an area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean, which is vulnerable to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

In 2011, Japan was hit by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggering powerful tsunami waves that caused rampant damage to properties, affecting operations massively in industries and leading to heavy casualties.

It was the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in the history of the country. Over 15,000 people had lost their lives, while thousands of others were either injured or reported missing. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI