6.8 quake strikes off Fukushima coast, no abnormalities at nuclear plant

A 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Japan, with its epicenter located some 129 kilometers from the city of Namie in Fukishima prefecture, US Geological Survey reported.

The quake was centered at a depth of about 10km, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

Tsunami advisories were issued for Fukushima prefecture, as well as for nearby Iwate and Miyagi prefectures, but were lifted two hours later.

The quake triggered a small tsunami of up to 20 cm at Ishinomaki in Miyagi prefecture, and other locations in northeast Japan. No major damage was reported.

There were no reports of abnormalities at Fukushima-1 nuclear plant following the quake, TEPCO reported.

The city of Namie is located in the southern part of the Hamadori coastal region of Fukushima prefecture.

The epicenter was also located 131km away from the city of Iwaki.

A marine threat has also been issued, as strong currents are expected to continue. JMA ordered residents to “get out of the water and leave the coast immediately.”

“Do not get in the sea or approach coasts until the advisory is cleared,” the agency said in a statement.

Though there may be slight sea-level change in coastal regions, no tsunami damage is expected, JMA added.

This is a copy of the full article provided by RT

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