Strong M6.7 earthquake hit near the coast of Hokkaido, Japan

A strong earthquake registered by JMA as M6.7 hit near the coast of Hokkaido, Japan at 03:25 UTC on January 14, 2016. The agency is reporting a depth of 50 km (31 miles). USGS is reporting M6.7 at a depth of 51.4 km (31.9 miles).

According to the USGS, the epicenter was located 51 km (32 miles) SE of Shizunai, 114 km (71 miles) SSW of Obihiro, 119 km (74 miles) SE of Tomakomai, 122 km (76 miles) SSW of Otofuke, and 743 km (462 miles) NNE of capital Tokyo, Japan.

There are about 131 948 people living within 100 km (62 miles) radius.

USGS issued a green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though some vulnerable structures exist.

Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and fires that might have contributed to losses.

JMA said that minor sea level fluctuations could be detected in coastal regions, and added that a tsunami warning was not issued.

Featured image credit: USGS