5.7 magnitude earthquake hits central Japan leaving 22 injured
The tremor occurred in western Shizuoka Prefecture early on Sunday with no tsunami threat reported by authorities.
A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Japan at approximately 1:04 am local time on Sunday, November 8, according to Kalinga TV. The tremor, which had its epicentre in western Shizuoka Prefecture at a depth of about 40 kilometres, left at least 22 people injured.
The strongest shaking was recorded in Chita city in neighbouring Aichi Prefecture, reaching an upper 5 level on the Japanese seismic intensity scale. Tremors were also felt in Nagano, Gifu, Kyoto, and Nara, causing damage to buildings and shops.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed on the social media platform X that there is no risk of a tsunami. Takaichi stated that the government has established a liaison office at the Prime Minister’s Office Crisis Management Centre to monitor the situation and assess damage.
Footage showed broken glass on streets and shattered windows in shops. Some injuries occurred when people fell while attempting to exit buildings during the shaking.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has advised residents to stay vigilant for strong aftershocks, especially over the next few days. As a precaution, Shinkansen bullet trains in the impacted regions are currently running at reduced speeds.