Strong Magnitude 6.6 Earthquake Rattles Japan

TOKYO – A strong earthquake has hit central Japan, rattling buildings in the crowded Tokyo capital.

The Japan Meteorological Agency estimates the quake had a magnitude of 6.6. It hit at 0808 GMT Sunday off the eastern coast of Fukushima Prefecture in central Japan, at a depth of about 25 miles (40 kilometers).

The agency did not issue a tsunami alert and said there was no danger of damage from waves.

The quake could be felt in central Tokyo, where it gently swayed large buildings.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage, and scenes broadcast on television from the heavier hit areas showed cars driving as normal.