Aftershock Strikes Hard-Hit Noto Peninsula in Japan

Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, was shaken awake early Monday morning by a strong earthquake registering a magnitude of 5.9. This tremor struck the Noto Peninsula, a region still recovering from a devastating earthquake just six months ago. While there are currently no reports of injuries or widespread damage, the earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the area’s vulnerability to seismic activity.

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The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported the earthquake struck at around 6:30 am local time, centered off the coast of Toyama Bay near the Noto Peninsula. The temblor sent tremors through the peninsula, registering upper 5 on the Japanese seismic intensity scale (shindo scale) in the cities of Wajima and Suzu. This intensity level can cause slight damage to buildings and unstable objects to fall.

The JMA initially issued a tsunami advisory for the region as a precaution. However, they quickly withdrew the advisory after determining there was no risk of a tsunami. Special early warning alerts were triggered on smartphones as far away as the Kanto region, including Tokyo. Residents in Niigata, Fukushima, and Toyama prefectures also reported feeling the tremors.

This earthquake comes on the heels of a much larger tremor that struck the Noto Peninsula on New Year’s Day. That powerful earthquake measured 7.6 on the Richter scale and caused widespread damage, killing over 260 people and displacing thousands more. Many areas are still rebuilding from that disaster.

Local authorities are currently assessing the situation and checking for any potential damage caused by Monday’s earthquake. While initial reports are positive, residents are understandably shaken after experiencing another earthquake in such a short period. The JMA is continuing to monitor the area for aftershocks and will provide updates as they become available.

This event highlights the importance of earthquake preparedness in Japan, a country located in a highly seismic zone. Residents are encouraged to have emergency plans in place and to be familiar with earthquake safety procedures.