Japan, Russia: A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs in North Pacific Ocean at around 05:51 Nov. 1

A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred east of the Kuril Islands near Japan and Russia at around 05:51 Nov. 1. The epicenter was approximately 177 km (110 miles) south-southeast of Kurilsk. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in parts of northern Hokkaido in Japan and Sakhalin Oblast in Russia. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. 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.