Earthquake in southern Ibaraki hits northern Saitama, southern Gunma

2026-06-16

An earthquake centered in southern Ibaraki Prefecture struck around 7:46 p.m. on the 16th, with northern Saitama and southern Gunma observing a maximum intensity of lower 5 on the Japanese seismic scale. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake was estimated at a depth of about 50 km and a magnitude of 5.5. There is no risk of a tsunami.

Impact on transport and nuclear power

According to Japan Atomic Power Co., no abnormalities have been confirmed at the Tokai No. 2 nuclear power plant in Tokai, Ibaraki Prefecture. East Japan Railway Co. said it had suspended operations on the Joetsu Shinkansen and Hokuriku Shinkansen.

Seismic intensities in various areas

In response to the quake, the government set up an information liaison office at the crisis management center in the prime minister's office.

Lower 5 was observed in Ota and Chiyoda towns in Gunma Prefecture, Kazo and Honjo cities in Saitama Prefecture, and Misato, Saitama. Intensity 4 was observed in Kiryu, Maebashi and Isesaki cities in Gunma Prefecture, Saitama, Tsuchiura and Mito cities in Ibaraki Prefecture, Utsunomiya, and Kanagawa Ward in Yokohama, among others. Intensity 3 was observed in Chiyoda Ward in Tokyo, Kofu, and Suwa in Nagano Prefecture, among others.

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