Strong earthquake rocks central Japan, injuring at least 22

A strong earthquake struck central Japan in the early hours of Sunday, shaking a wide area around Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures and injuring at least 22 people. The quake caused shattered shop windows, scattered debris and people to flee buildings in several locations. It was felt across parts of central Japan, including Kyoto, Nara, Gifu and Yamanashi.

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Japan's Meteorological Agency said the earthquake measured magnitude 5.7, while the US Geological Survey reported it at magnitude 5.5. The quake struck at 1:04am local time and was centred about 40 kilometres below the Earth's surface in Shizuoka prefecture. Local media reported that some of the injured were hurt while trying to escape, including people who fell on stairs.

Footage from the affected area showed broken glass on streets and damage to storefronts, including a car dealership in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture. A bookstore was also left with books thrown from shelves. The Shinkansen bullet train network was running at reduced speeds in affected areas as a precaution, reflecting concern that strong shaking can affect rail infrastructure even when major damage is not immediately confirmed.

The earthquake has renewed attention on central Japan's exposure to seismic risk. The region sits in one of the world's most active earthquake zones, and officials regularly warn residents to prepare for aftershocks and secondary hazards such as falling rocks and mudslides. The latest warning is especially significant because it comes in an area that includes major population centres and transport links.

Ayataka Ebita, an official with the meteorological agency, urged people to remain alert for possible strong quakes over the coming week, particularly in the next two to three days. He also warned of the risk of mudslides, falling rocks and the possible effects of rainfall. Officials said no apparent change had been detected in the Nankai Trough plate, where scientists say a major earthquake could occur in the future.

Central Japan has experienced repeated seismic activity in the past, and authorities often stress that even moderate quakes can cause injuries, disruption and precautionary transport changes. The fact that the shaking was felt across several prefectures, but not in Tokyo, underlines the broad reach of the event without suggesting a nationwide emergency. What remains unclear is whether further aftershocks will cause additional damage or injuries in the coming days.

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