Japan hit by 6.3 magnitude earthquake
Visitors and workers are required to wear protective suits and masks at Japan’s Fukushima nuclear power plant, which was rocked by the March 11, 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
A strong earthquake in Western Japan reportedly injured at least 24 people and caused damage to some homes — although there was no threat of a tsunami.
AFP reports that the quake hit near Awaji island, which is located to the southwest of the city of Kobe. The quake was measured at 6.3 by the Japanese meteorological agency, and 6.0 by the US Geological Survey.
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"Although there may be slight sea-level changes in coastal regions, the earthquake caused no damage to Japan," said the Japanese Meteorological Agency of the quake, according to Reuters.
Local officials told Kyodo News there was some damage on Awaji Island, while the meteorological agency warned of potential aftershocks.
The wounded raged in age from 1 to 95, added Kyodo, with the most injuries registered in Hyogo Prefecture, which suspended train service following the temblor. Some injuries wre serious, but no one died.
No damage was reported by officials at the Oi Nuclear Power plant, the only such functioning facility in Japan following the devastating Fukushima quake.
"Our operation has continued as we haven't monitored any abnormality, but we are still checking if there is any damage to the facilities," said a plant official to AFP.