Magnitude 5.7 Quake Injures 22 Across Central Japan
The early morning tremor shattered windows in Aichi and Shizuoka, prompting a temporary slowdown of Shinkansen services.
By Aiko Brooks ·
Residents in central Japan faced disruptions and injuries early Sunday after a powerful earthquake struck the region. At least 22 people sustained injuries, many from falling while attempting to exit buildings, according to local media reports. The seismic event occurred at 1:04 a.m., with the epicenter located roughly 40 kilometers beneath the surface in Shizuoka Prefecture.
Japan’s Meteorological Agency calculated the earthquake’s magnitude at 5.7, while the U.S. Geological Survey recorded it at 5.5. Smaller aftershocks followed the initial tremor. The most intense shaking was recorded in Aichi Prefecture, which borders Shizuoka. The impact was felt across a wide area, including the city of Hamamatsu and the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara. Nearby prefectures such as Yamanashi and Gifu also experienced the quake. Tokyo, located further from the epicenter, did not feel the tremors.
Footage from local television channels captured the immediate aftermath on streets and in commercial areas. Shards of glass lay scattered across sidewalks where store windows had shattered. In one bookstore, mounds of inventory had fallen from shelves onto the floor. The damage indicated the force of the shaking that prompted many residents to flee their homes and offices.
The Meteorological Agency issued a warning for the coming week, advising the public to prepare for potential strong quakes in the next two to three days. Ayataka Ebita, an agency official, told reporters to watch for mudslides, falling rocks, and effects from rainfall. He noted that no apparent changes were detected in the Nankai Trough plate, a fault line where scientists monitor the possibility of a major earthquake.
Rail operators implemented precautionary measures in the affected zones. Shinkansen bullet trains operated at reduced speeds to ensure safety, as earthquakes can sometimes damage the tracks and infrastructure. The slowdown allowed for inspections before normal service resumed.
Authorities reiterated standard preparedness guidelines for the earthquake-prone region. Officials instructed residents to maintain supplies of bottled water, food, and batteries. They also advised keeping plans ready to hide under sturdy furniture and ensuring comfortable walking shoes are accessible for quick evacuation.
The agency continues to monitor seismic activity in the central region. The initial assessment confirmed that the quake’s depth and location limited the impact on major metropolitan centers far to the east. Local emergency services remained active in the affected prefectures to address structural concerns and assist injured residents.
