A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 5.7 struck central Japan early Sunday, causing damage such as shattered store windows and injuring at least 22 people, according to local media reports. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the earthquake's magnitude as 5.5.
The tremor affected a broad region near Aichi Prefecture, including the city of Hamamatsu and the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara. Neighboring prefectures of Yamanashi and Gifu were also impacted. The earthquake occurred at 1:04 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located approximately 25 miles below the surface in Shizuoka Prefecture.
Japanese television footage displayed scenes of broken store windows and debris on streets. In one instance, a bookstore saw its shelves emptied, with books scattered on the floor. The reported injuries included individuals who fell while attempting to evacuate buildings.
The earthquake was not felt in Tokyo, as the affected areas are sufficiently distant. Official seismic assessments indicated that Aichi experienced the most intense shaking. The Japan Meteorological Agency has advised residents to remain vigilant for potential strong aftershocks in the coming week, particularly within the next two to three days.
Ayataka Ebita, an official with the agency, warned the public to be aware of risks such as mudslides, falling rocks, and potential impacts from rainfall. He stated that no significant changes have been observed in the Nankai Trough plate, an area where a major earthquake is considered a possibility.
As a precautionary measure, Shinkansen bullet trains in the affected regions were operating at reduced speeds, a measure sometimes taken when earthquakes could potentially damage rail infrastructure.
Japan is situated in a seismically active zone, and authorities regularly provide guidance on earthquake preparedness, including recommendations to stockpile essentials like water, food, and batteries, and to have evacuation plans and appropriate footwear ready.