A magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck eastern Japan, including the Tokyo metropolitan area, on Sunday, injuring at least 23 people across four prefectures. There was no tsunami threat following the quake, officials said.
Quake Strikes Ibaraki, People Injured in Four Prefectures
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake struck southern Ibaraki prefecture at a depth of around 70 kilometres. The US Geological Survey recorded the quake at a preliminary magnitude of 5.8. Authorities reported injuries in four prefectures: nine people in Saitama, nine in Kanagawa, four in Chiba and one in Ibaraki. Many of those injured fell or collided with furniture and doors after being startled by the shaking. Several people were asleep when the earthquake struck and were hurt as they rushed out of bed in panic.
Around 2 o'clock today, an earthquake occurred with its epicenter in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, and strong shaking with a maximum seismic intensity of lower 5 was observed in the 23 wards of Tokyo, Ibaraki Prefecture, Saitama Prefecture, and Chiba Prefecture.
There is no need to worry about tsunamis.
At this time, there is no information regarding human casualties or property damage, but we are receiving reports that the damage situation is still being assessed. …
— Sanae Takaichi (@takaichi_sanae) August 22, 2026
Train Services Hit, Government Sets Up Task Force
The earthquake also disrupted transport services in the region. Express trains serving Tokyo and Narita Airport were delayed, along with several local train services operating in northeastern areas. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government had established a task force to assess the extent of the damage and monitor the situation. Japan is highly prone to earthquakes, and Sunday’s tremor comes after a powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the Kumamoto area on Kyushu last month, killing 38 people and injuring 364.
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Shamshad Ali is a New Delhi–based journalist with over six years of experience spanning breaking news writing, on-the-ground reporting, and editing. When he isn’t chasing headlines, Shamshad is usually exploring new destinations, discovering hidden culinary gems, and striking up conversations with strangers. Many of whom turn out to be great sources, and even better friends. He can be reached at shamshadali.dar@gmail.com.
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