Magnitude 5.8 Earthquake Hits Northern Japan, No Tsunami Warning Issued

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Aomori Prefecture in northern Japan, prompting no tsunami warning. This event follows a devastating quake in Kumamoto Prefecture, where the death toll has risen to 35. Reports indicate significant damage, with many residents seeking shelter and assistance. The situation remains critical as authorities respond to the aftermath of these seismic events. Read on for more details about the impact and ongoing recovery efforts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 1, 2026, 12:34 IST

Earthquake Strikes Aomori Prefecture

Representational Image

Tokyo, August 1: A 5.8 magnitude earthquake was recorded off the coast of Aomori Prefecture in northern Japan on Saturday, according to the nation's meteorological agency.

The earthquake struck at 11:48 a.m. local time, approximately 80 km deep, and registered a level 4 on Japan's seismic intensity scale of 7, as reported by the Japan Meteorological Agency.

The epicenter was pinpointed at a latitude of 41.3 degrees north and a longitude of 142.0 degrees east, as per reports from a news agency.

Fortunately, no tsunami warning was issued following the quake.

This seismic event follows a recent powerful earthquake that impacted Kumamoto Prefecture on Tuesday at around 4:27 p.m. local time, which reached an intensity of 7 in the most affected areas, resulting in significant destruction.

On Friday, local government officials reported that the death toll from the earlier earthquake had climbed to 35.

During a disaster response meeting on Friday morning, officials from Kumamoto Prefecture confirmed that 35 fatalities had been recorded, including cases still under investigation to ascertain if they were linked to the earthquake.

While traveling from Yatsushiro to Uki, another city heavily impacted by the disaster, reporters noted damaged roads, broken traffic signals, and long lines at gas stations. Many individuals waiting for fuel expressed intentions to spend the night in their vehicles.

In Uki City's Ogawa district, a community center has been repurposed as an evacuation shelter, accommodating nearly 500 evacuees, predominantly elderly individuals and children.

Families were seen sitting on the floor surrounded by their belongings, including backpacks and bottled water. Some rested against walls, while others prepared sleeping mats for the night. More than a dozen portable toilets were set up outside for the evacuees' convenience.