21 Jul 2024 | 05:31 AM UTC
Japan: Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs in the Pacific Ocean, east-southeast of Kushiro, Hokkaido, at around 13:27 July 21.
Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs east-southeast of Kushiro, Japan, 13:27 July 21. No initial reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurred in the Pacific Ocean at around 13:27 July 21. The epicenter was about 99 km (62 miles) east-southeast of Kushiro, Hokkaido. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 5.3 km (15 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of Hokkaido. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
