Magnitude 5.7 quake injures over 20 in central Japan
A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck western Shizuoka Prefecture early Sunday, injuring more than 20 people and prompting warnings of aftershocks.
More than 20 people were injured after a magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck western Shizuoka Prefecture at 1:04 a.m. local time on Sunday, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. The quake, centered at a depth of about 40 km, also affected nearby Aichi Prefecture and caused damage to storefronts and a bookstore in the area.
Authorities in Aichi and Shizuoka reported the injuries, and the Kyodo news agency noted that no tsunami warning was issued. The tremor was not felt in Tokyo.
The meteorological agency warned residents to remain vigilant for possible strong aftershocks over the next few days, especially in the first two to three days. > "Please be on the lookout for mudslides, falling rocks and the possible effects from rainfall," agency official Ayataka Ebita told reporters.
Rail services were partially disrupted: some local trains were suspended, and Shinkansen bullet trains operated at reduced speeds between Shizuoka and Gifu-Hashima stations while safety checks were carried out, JR Central said.