06 Mar 2023 | 11:00 PM UTC
Japan: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs near Hokkaido at around 07:24 JST March 7
Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs near Hokkaido, Japan, at around 07:24 JST March 7. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the North Pacific Ocean near Hokkaido at around 07:24 JST March 7. The epicenter was about 72 km (45 miles) south-southeast of Kushiro, Japan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 47 km (29 miles), and light shaking may have been felt in parts of Hokkaido. 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 where shaking occurred.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
