A 5.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Japan early on Sunday, resulting in injuries to more than twenty people across Aichi and Shizuoka Prefectures. As of now, there has been no tsunami warning issued following the tremor.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the earthquake occurred at 1:04 AM, with its epicenter located in the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture and a depth of approximately 40 kilometers. Notably, Chita City in Aichi Prefecture recorded a seismic intensity of “5 strong” on the Japanese seismic scale.
This earthquake marks the most significant tremor experienced in Aichi Prefecture in nearly three decades, a region that houses prominent manufacturing companies, including Toyota Motor Corporation. The last recorded seismic intensity of “5 strong” in Aichi dates back to 1997.
Seismic intensity classified as “5 strong” indicates that most individuals would find it difficult to walk without holding onto something, and unsecured furniture may tip over. In contrast, an intensity of “5 weak” could cause items such as dishes and books on shelves to fall.
Certain areas of Aichi, Nagano, and Gifu Prefectures experienced a “5 weak” seismic intensity as well.
According to Chubu Electric Power Co., which operates the Hamaoka Nuclear Power Plant in Shizuoka Prefecture, no abnormalities were detected at the facility. This nuclear plant is situated near the Nankai Trough, an area forecasted to potentially experience strong earthquakes in the future.
The Japan Meteorological Agency mentioned that the recently occurred earthquake has a “low possibility” of being related to the anticipated major earthquake in the Nankai Trough region.
In the wake of the earthquake, some local train services temporarily halted. JR Central indicated that the Tōkai Shinkansen (bullet train) between Shizuoka Station and Gifu Hashima Station was required to slow down for safety reasons, causing delays. However, regular speeds were restored by midday.
The central government of Japan has established a liaison office to respond to this earthquake event.
Earlier on Sunday around 10:53 AM, another earthquake, initially measured at a magnitude of 4.3, was reported in Kumamoto Prefecture, located in southwestern Japan. Seismic intensity of 4 was recorded in Kumamoto City, Uto City, and Uki City.
Japan is notorious for its seismic activity. Just recently, Kumamoto Prefecture experienced a 7.1 magnitude earthquake on July 28, which resulted in numerous fatalities.
The nation continues to bolster its preparedness and response strategies to mitigate the impact of seismic events.