Powerful 5.9-Magnitude Quake Rattles Tokyo, Injuring Dozens 

A magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck eastern Japan early Sunday, shaking Tokyo and surrounding areas and injuring at least 37 people, according to initial reports. The quake was centered in southern Ibaraki Prefecture at a depth of about 68 to 70 kilometers. No tsunami warning was issued, and authorities reported no abnormalities at nearby nuclear facilities. Train services were disrupted as officials inspected infrastructure and warned residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks. 

TOKYO — A powerful earthquake shook eastern Japan early Sunday, rattling Tokyo and surrounding prefectures, injuring at least 37 people and disrupting rail services across one of the world's most densely populated metropolitan regions.

The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the earthquake struck at about 2 a.m. local time, with its epicenter in southern Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo. The quake was measured at a preliminary magnitude of 5.9 and occurred roughly 68 to 70 kilometers below the surface.

Strong shaking was felt across the Kanto region, including parts of Tokyo, Ibaraki, Saitama and Chiba. The earthquake registered a "lower 5" on Japan's seven-level seismic intensity scale in some areas, a level capable of frightening residents and causing unsecured objects and furniture to move or fall.

At least 37 people were injured across five prefectures, according to reports citing local authorities. Most of the injuries were minor and occurred as residents, awakened suddenly by the nighttime shaking, fell or collided with furniture while attempting to move to safety. One elderly woman in Yokohama reportedly suffered a serious hip injury after falling.

Despite the strength of the tremor, Japanese authorities said there was no tsunami threat. Officials also reported no abnormalities at nearby nuclear facilities, easing fears of a broader emergency.

The quake nevertheless disrupted transportation throughout the region. Several train services were delayed or temporarily suspended while operators conducted safety inspections. Some services to and from Tokyo and Narita International Airport were affected, although the full extent of the transportation disruption was still being assessed.

Japan's sophisticated earthquake warning system alerted many residents moments before or during the strongest shaking, with mobile phone alarms sounding across affected communities. Emergency officials began inspecting roads, rail lines, buildings and other critical infrastructure shortly after the quake.

Authorities also reported limited physical damage, including a ruptured underground water pipe in Tokyo's Koto Ward. The damage was repaired, and there were no immediate reports of widespread building collapses, major fires or large-scale power outages.

The Japan Meteorological Agency urged residents in affected areas to remain cautious in the coming days because aftershocks can follow a significant earthquake. Officials advised people to monitor official emergency information and take standard precautions, particularly around damaged structures and unsecured household items.

Japan is among the world's most earthquake-prone countries because of its location along the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire. Sunday's quake was another reminder of the persistent threat faced by the country, even as Japan maintains some of the world's most advanced earthquake detection, warning and disaster-response systems.

As of Sunday, authorities continued to assess the damage and monitor the region for additional seismic activity. The situation remained fluid, and casualty and disruption figures could change as inspections continue.

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