A 5.9-magnitude earthquake shook eastern Japan, including the capital Tokyo, on the evening of August 23 local time. Preliminary reports indicate dozens of people were injured in the incident.
The quake struck at approximately 22:27 local time (20:27 Vietnam time), with its epicenter in the eastern part of Japan. Early reports indicate strong shaking was felt across several districts in the Kanto region, a densely populated area that serves as Japan's economic and political hub.
Local authorities are swiftly assessing the damage. Initial findings show at least dozens of injuries, mostly caused by falling objects or panic during evacuations. Hospitals in Tokyo and neighboring prefectures have been placed on standby to receive emergency cases.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that no tsunami warning was issued for this earthquake. However, officials continue to advise residents to be alert for potential aftershocks in the coming hours and to watch for landslide risks in mountainous areas.
Transportation in the affected region saw notable delays at the time of the quake. The Shinkansen bullet train system and several Tokyo subway lines were temporarily halted for safety inspections before resuming normal operations.
This is one of the most significant earthquakes to hit eastern Japan in recent times. Authorities say they will continue to update information on the damage situation as new data emerges from rescue efforts and on-site surveys.
