At least 22 people have been injured after a 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Japan in the early hours of Sunday, triggering panic across several areas and damaging shops and buildings.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake occurred at around 1:04 am local time, with its epicentre in western Shizuoka Prefecture at a depth of nearly 40 kilometres. No tsunami warning was issued following the tremor.
Aichi Prefecture recorded the strongest shaking, with Chita city experiencing an upper 5 on Japan’s seven-level seismic intensity scale.
Tremors were also reported in neighbouring Nagano and Gifu prefectures.
Several shop windows were shattered, leaving broken glass scattered across streets. At a bookstore, numerous books fell from shelves during the earthquake. Some residents also suffered injuries while rushing out of buildings to escape the shaking.
Meanwhile, bullet train services in the affected region continued at reduced speeds as a precaution amid concerns over possible damage to railway infrastructure.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has advised residents to stay cautious, warning that aftershocks could occur over the coming days. Authorities continue to monitor the situation.
