A series of earthquakes, including a primary event, occurred in western Japan on Tuesday morning at 10:18 a.m. Japan Standard Time. While the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported the primary earthquake at 6.2 magnitude, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) initially recorded a 5.8 magnitude event, later revised to 5.7. The seismic activity centered near Shimane and Tottori Prefectures, registering an upper 5 on Japan's seismic intensity scale, with subsequent aftershocks reported. No tsunami risk was confirmed, and no injuries have been reported.
Seismic Activity Details
The main seismic event occurred at 10:18 a.m. Japan Standard Time (JST). The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) measured this primary earthquake at a 6.2 magnitude, with its epicenter located in the region of Shimane and Tottori Prefectures. The earthquake registered an upper 5 on Japan’s seismic intensity scale and had an approximate depth of 6 miles.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) independently reported a 5.7-magnitude earthquake at the same time, approximately 11 miles south of Matsue, Japan. The USGS had initially reported a magnitude of 5.8, which was subsequently revised to 5.7. Seismologists often update magnitude reports as more data becomes available.
Following the initial tremor, a subsequent earthquake measuring 5.1 magnitude occurred, registering a lower 5 on Japan's seismic intensity scale. Additional aftershocks continued throughout the late morning, with residents reporting a prolonged swaying motion.
Impact and Response
The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that there was no tsunami risk associated with these earthquakes. However, the JMA issued a warning indicating that seismic events up to upper-5 intensity could persist for approximately one week, with the highest probability within the next two to three days. Officials also cautioned residents in affected regions about increased risks of landslides and falling rocks.
As of the latest updates, no injuries have been reported. Two regional electric power companies stated that no abnormalities were detected in their operations. Bullet train services in the affected areas experienced temporary disruptions. Visual evidence from cameras mounted on buildings captured the ground shaking during the events.
Affected Areas
The most intense shaking was recorded in specific areas, including:
- Matsue and Yasugi in Shimane Prefecture
- Sakaiminato and neighboring towns in Tottori Prefecture
Weaker, yet widely felt, seismic activity extended into parts of western Japan, encompassing:
- Okayama Prefecture
- Hiroshima Prefecture
- Kagawa Prefecture
- Ehime Prefecture