More than 20 people have been injured after a 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Japan in the early hours of Sunday (8 November), with tremors felt across several prefectures.
The earthquake occurred at approximately 1.04am local time, with its epicentre located in the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture at a depth of around 40km, according to Japan’s Meteorological Agency (JMA).
Aichi and Shizuoka were among the affected areas, with authorities reporting more than 20 injuries following the tremor. There were no immediate reports of a tsunami threat, and the JMA did not issue a tsunami warning.
The strongest shaking was recorded in Chita, Aichi Prefecture, where the earthquake registered an upper 5 on Japan’s seven-level seismic intensity scale.
Residents Struggle to Stay on Their Feet as Tremors Shake Buildings
Japan’s seismic intensity scale measures how strongly an earthquake affects people and structures at different locations, rather than simply describing its magnitude.
An upper 5 reading indicates particularly strong shaking. People may find it difficult to walk without holding onto something, while unsecured furniture and household objects can topple over.
Other parts of Aichi, Nagano and Gifu prefectures recorded lower 5 intensity.
At this level, residents may experience difficulty moving around, while dishes, books and other objects could fall from shelves. The shaking can also cause considerable alarm, particularly among residents who are asleep when an earthquake strikes.
Nuclear Power Plant Reports No Abnormalities
The earthquake also raised attention because of its proximity to the Hamaoka Nuclear Power Plant in Shizuoka Prefecture.
The facility is operated by Chubu Electric Power and is situated near an area associated with the potential source region of a major Nankai Trough earthquake.
However, the operator reported that no abnormalities were detected at the nuclear power station following Sunday’s tremor.
Japan’s Meteorological Agency also assessed that the likelihood of the earthquake being connected to a potential Nankai Trough megaquake was low.
The Nankai Trough is an offshore geological zone where tectonic plates interact, and Japanese authorities have long warned that a major earthquake could occur in the region in the future.
Train Services Disrupted Following Earthquake
The tremors also affected transport operations in central Japan.
Some local railway services were temporarily suspended as operators carried out safety checks. Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train services between Shizuoka and Gifu-Hashima stations experienced delays because trains were instructed to travel at reduced speeds as a precaution.
Normal-speed operations resumed before noon, according to JR Central.
Meanwhile, Japan’s central government established a liaison office to coordinate its response to the earthquake and monitor developments.
For Singaporeans planning holidays to Japan, the incident is another reminder that earthquakes are a regular natural hazard in the country.
Travellers should familiarise themselves with their hotel’s emergency evacuation procedures, keep track of official earthquake advisories and know where to seek shelter if strong tremors occur.
Although Sunday’s earthquake did not trigger a tsunami warning, visitors should continue following instructions from Japanese authorities, particularly when travelling through affected areas.