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[INTERNATIONAL] · Japan · 7 sources

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Japan hit by two significant earthquakes in 24 hours

Japan experienced two significant earthquakes within a 24-hour period on Sunday, August 23, 2026. The first tremor, measuring a preliminary magnitude of 5.9, struck eastern Japan with its epicenter in southern Ibaraki Prefecture at a depth of approximately 70 kilometers. This early morning quake caused at least 37 injuries across several prefectures, including Tokyo, Saitama, Kanagawa, Chiba, and Ibaraki. Most injuries resulted from falls or contact with furniture as residents were startled while sleeping. The tremor also caused a water pipe to rupture in Tokyo’s Koto district and led to temporary service suspensions for trains traveling to Narita Airport, though Shinkansen bullet trains remained operational.

Hours later, a second earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.0 struck off the coast of Urakawa in Hokkaido at a depth of approximately 40 kilometers. While this second quake was felt strongly in Hokkaido and Aomori, no immediate injuries or significant material damage were reported from this specific event.

The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that no tsunami risk was associated with either earthquake. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has established a task force to assess potential damages, and authorities have advised residents to remain cautious of potential aftershocks over the coming week.

Entities

East Japan Railway Co. · Hokkaido · Japan Meteorological Agency · Sanae Takaichi · Tokyo

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