A significant earthquake measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale has struck parts of Japan, causing buildings to shake in major cities. Emergency services have been activated in Nara and Osaka following the quake, which occurred at approximately 6:28 PM local time, sending noticeable tremors across the Kansai region.
Details of the Earthquake
The earthquake originated at a depth of about 80 kilometers in Wakayama Prefecture, according to initial reports. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the epicenter about 17 kilometers southwest of the town of Koja in Ito District, Wakayama Prefecture, at a depth of 59.1 kilometers. No casualties have been reported so far, and no tsunami warning has been issued.
Seismic Context
This latest quake comes after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the northeast coast of Japan on April 20. That event triggered evacuation orders and warnings of three-meter tsunami waves, prompting thousands to move to higher ground. Japan's meteorological agency had warned of an increased risk of a major earthquake following that event, noting a 1% chance of a megaquake in the following week, compared to a 0.1% chance during normal times. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged residents to confirm evacuation routes and prepare emergency supplies.
Shallow Depth and Location
The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) reported that the 5.7 magnitude quake occurred at a very shallow depth of 80 km beneath the epicenter near Kashiwara, Gose Shi, Nara. The tremor was felt across the Kansai region, including major cities like Nara and Osaka.
Scientists have warned of an increased risk of a major earthquake following the 7.7 magnitude quake last month, which was off Iwate prefecture, 530 kilometers north of Tokyo. While this latest quake is further south and of lesser magnitude, authorities remain vigilant.
