Powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake shakes western Japan's Chugoku region; several strong aftershocks felt
A powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck western Japan's Chugoku region on Tuesday morning. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, several strong aftershocks were also felt following the quake.
The epicenter of the earthquake was in the eastern part of Shimane Prefecture. The agency said there was no risk of a tsunami.
Chugoku Electric Power, which runs the Shimane Nuclear Power Station about 32 km away, said operations were continuing as usual at its No.2 unit. Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority said there were no irregularities following the quake.
Following the earthquake, West Japan Railway temporarily suspended Shinkansen bullet train services between Shin-Osaka and Hakata as a safety precaution.
The earthquake was so strong that it was difficult to stand or walk without support.
Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. Approximately one-fifth of all earthquakes with a magnitude of 6 or greater worldwide occur in Japan.