InsideJapan News Network

An earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale was unable to cause significant disruption to the Japanese island resort of Ishigaki on Monday.

The Associated Press reports that utilities were not affected by the quake, while no injuries are believed to have been sustained.

Police official Naoto Otake tells the newswire: "Nothing fell during the quake. Electricity, water and gas are all working."

No reports of damage or of casualties were received following the earthquake from the 40,000 people who live on Ishigaki.

However, as a precautionary measure, inhabitants were told to stay away from coastal areas after a tsunami alert was issued for the region.

The Japan Meteorological Agency issues earthquake data bulletins with any associated tsunami threats via its website.

Within five minutes of a seismic event taking place, this information distributes readings of earthquake location and magnitude, as well as tsunami height and arrival time if appropriate.

Written by Susan Ballion