A 5.9 magnitude earthquake has rocked the area near Tokyo, leaving dozens of minor injuries.

At least 37 people were injured in a magnitude 5.9 earthquake that struck southern Japan near Tokyo early Monday, according to Japan's Fire and Disaster Management Agency. The quake occurred at a depth of 68 kilometers beneath the region, with no tsunami threat reported. The U.S. Geological Survey estimated the tremor’s magnitude at 5.8, while Japan’s Meteorological Agency warned of increased risk of landslides in the affected area. Aftershocks are possible in the coming days, according to reports from French news agency AFP. The earthquake hit the Ibaraki prefecture, located south of Tokyo, causing disruptions to regional rail services. Although no major structural damage was reported, several buildings sustained minor cracks, and some residents were evacuated as a precaution. Emergency responders arrived quickly to assess the situation and provide assistance to those injured. Local authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and follow official updates regarding potential aftershocks. This quake follows another powerful tremor that struck southern Japan in late July. That earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1 and caused extensive property damage in Kumamoto prefecture, resulting in more than ten fatalities. The recent Ibaraki earthquake has raised concerns among seismologists and local officials about the possibility of further seismic activity in the region. Experts are monitoring the fault lines for signs of additional movement, though no immediate threats have been identified. Japan experiences frequent earthquakes due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone known for high seismic activity. The country has strict building codes and emergency preparedness measures in place to mitigate the impact of such events. However, even with these precautions, quakes can cause unexpected damage, particularly in densely populated areas like Ibaraki. Residents in the affected neighborhoods described the shaking as sudden and intense, lasting approximately 40 seconds. Some reported hearing loud noises before the ground began to move. Schools and businesses in the area were temporarily closed as safety checks were conducted. Power outages were reported in parts of Ibaraki, though utility companies worked swiftly to restore electricity. Local hospitals received multiple patients with injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more severe fractures. Most victims were treated and released, but a few required hospitalization for further evaluation. Authorities have emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and following evacuation orders should conditions worsen. Community centers have opened to accommodate displaced individuals, offering temporary shelter and supplies. The Japanese government has activated disaster response protocols, deploying teams to assess infrastructure integrity and ensure public safety. Officials are coordinating with national agencies to provide support to affected communities. Meanwhile, scientists continue to analyze data from the earthquake to better understand its causes and implications for future seismic risks. In the wake of this incident, discussions have begun about reinforcing existing emergency plans and improving communication systems to respond more effectively to similar events. While the current situation appears under control, the possibility of aftershocks remains a concern for both residents and officials. Monitoring stations across the region are operating at heightened capacity to detect any changes in seismic patterns.