Earthquake hits western Japan

Roads and building facilities were damaged in Hiroshima

A strong earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale has struck a wide area in western Japan, killing at least two people and injuring dozens.

Hiroshima fire department officials said an 80-year-old woman was crushed to death when her house collapsed.

Police in the neighbouring prefecture of Ehime said another woman died after being hit by a falling balcony when she was fleeing her home.

The quake, which had its epicentre off the coast of Hiroshima, struck at 0328 local time (0628), according to the meteorological agency.

But the agency said there was no danger of a tsunami, or tidal wave.

Fire department officials said at least four houses had caught fire after the quake, and many people were still trapped in lifts.

More than 60 people have been reported injured, and one of them is believed to be in a critical condition.

Windows were shattered as buildings swayed violently with the tremor.

Windows were shattered, roof tiles and shop signs fell

The city's trains were stopped and telephone services interrupted briefly.

"The shaking was so strong. Roof tiles flew away. Mirrors and glasses were all broken," Hiroshima resident Hisako Ishii told AFP news agency.

A police spokesman in neighbouring Tottori prefecture said the quake had been felt for about 20 seconds, but there were no reports of injuries or damage to buildings.

Saturday's earthquake comes a day after one registering 5.8 on the Richter scale hit northern Japan.

Japan is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries.