Japan hit by 5.8 magnitude quake in Aomori after Kumamoto tremor

A 5.8‑magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast of Aomori Prefecture in northern Japan at 11:48 a.m. local time, with its epicentre about 80 km deep at 41.3° N, 142.0° E. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported no tsunami advisory.

The tremor followed a devastating 7.1‑magnitude quake that hit Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu on Tuesday, which has caused at least 35 deaths and numerous injuries, collapsed bridges and damaged buildings. More than 170 aftershocks were recorded after the Kumamoto event. Authorities have warned that the region remains seismically sensitive for the next two to three days, with the possibility of further quakes up to magnitude 7 on the Shindo scale. Rescue and relief teams are advised to take regular breaks to avoid heat‑related illnesses amid the ongoing heat wave.