Magnitude 6.2 earthquake shakes part of northern Japan

In the early hours of Monday, northern Japan experienced a significant tremor as a magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck the region. Fortunately, there were no reports of damage or injuries resulting from the quake.

The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that no tsunami warning was necessary following the earthquake. This event took place inland, approximately 11 miles west of Sarabetsu, a small town situated on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island. The US Geological Survey recorded the earthquake’s depth at 50 miles and noted a slightly different magnitude of 6.1.


Steam rises out of a power station protected by a tsunami sea wall in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture on April 27, 2026.
Steam rises out of a power station protected by a tsunami sea wall in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture on April 27, 2026. AFP via Getty Images

Just a week prior, a more potent 7.7 magnitude earthquake occurred offshore, leading Japan to issue an advisory concerning the elevated risk of a potential megaquake along the nation’s northeastern coastline. However, Monday’s earthquake was outside the zone under this advisory.

The Japan Meteorological Agency reassured the public that the area affected by the latest tremor does not fall within the megaquake advisory’s scope. Consequently, the heightened awareness period is expected to conclude as initially scheduled.

A week ago, a 7.7 magnitude offshore earthquake prompted Japan to issue an advisory of a slightly higher risk of a possible megaquake for the nation’s northeastern coastal areas.


A bulletin board at JR Obihiro Station announces the suspension of train services due to the effects of an earthquake in Obihiro City, Hokkaido Prefecture on April 27, 2026.
A bulletin board at JR Obihiro Station announces the suspension of train services due to the effects of an earthquake in Obihiro City, Hokkaido Prefecture on April 27, 2026. JIJI PRESS/AFP via Getty Images

The JMA said Monday’s quake was outside of the area subject to a megaquake advisory and that the special awareness week is set to end as planned.

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