Magnitude 6.4 Earthquake Strikes Central Japan; No Tsunami Warning Issued

An earthquake measuring 6.4 in magnitude struck Ishikawa, Japan, on Tuesday night, with no tsunami warning issued. The quake, occurring at a depth of 10 kilometers, caused the suspension of bullet train services between Toyama and Kanazawa. It registered a seismic intensity of 5 in the region still recovering from a previous major quake.

On Tuesday night, a significant earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.4 was recorded in central Japan, particularly impacting Ishikawa Prefecture, as reported by the Japan Meteorological Agency. The quake struck at 10:47 p.m., resulting in a notable seismic intensity of 5 on Japan’s seismic scale of 7 in Noto, an area still in recovery from a severe earthquake earlier this year on January 1st. Fortunately, no tsunami warning was issued following the incident, as it transpired at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers off the western coast. Additionally, disruptions were noted in bullet train services; JR West announced a suspension of operations on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line between Toyama and Kanazawa due to the quake’s impact.

Japan is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly susceptible to seismic activity, including significant earthquakes. The region experiences numerous quakes annually, and governmental agencies, such as the Japan Meteorological Agency, are vigilant in monitoring these events to provide timely notifications regarding potential risks such as tsunamis, which can accompany undersea earthquakes. The historical context of major earthquakes in Japan highlights the importance of these monitoring efforts, especially in regions like Ishikawa that are currently undergoing recovery from previous seismic disasters.

In conclusion, the recent earthquake in central Japan underscored the ongoing seismic risks faced by the region, particularly in Ishikawa Prefecture. While the magnitude was substantial and caused disruptions in transportation, the absence of a tsunami warning is a relief. As recovery efforts continue from prior earthquakes, this latest event serves as a reminder of the geological vulnerabilities in Japan and the necessity of preparedness and ongoing monitoring.

Original Source: english.kyodonews.net