Earthquake Jolts Japan, Causing Damage and Injuries
Magnitude 5.9 Quake Strikes Tokyo Area
Tokyo - A powerful earthquake struck central Japan on Thursday night, killing at least one person and injuring more than 30.
Epicenter, Magnitude, and Impact
The earthquake, which had a magnitude of 5.9, was centered in the town of Ishige in Ibaraki Prefecture, about 48 kilometers (30 miles) northeast of Tokyo. It was the strongest earthquake to hit the Tokyo area in nearly five years.
The quake caused buildings to shake violently in Tokyo and surrounding areas, and knocked out power to some homes and businesses. Several buildings in Ishige were damaged, including a school that was left partially collapsed.
Casualties and Emergency Response
One person was confirmed dead in the town of Nanao in Ishikawa Prefecture, about 75 kilometers (47 miles) northwest of Tokyo. The victim was a man in his 80s who was crushed by a collapsed wall.
More than 30 people were injured in the earthquake, including several who were seriously hurt. Emergency responders are currently working to rescue people from damaged buildings and assist those who have been injured.
Aftershocks and Concerns
The earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, including one that had a magnitude of 5.2. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned that more aftershocks are possible, and has urged residents to be prepared for further shaking.
The earthquake has raised concerns about the safety of Japan's nuclear power plants. The Onagawa nuclear power plant in Miyagi Prefecture, about 120 kilometers (75 miles) north of Tokyo, was automatically shut down after the earthquake. No irregularities have been reported at the plant.
The earthquake comes just days after a massive earthquake struck Hokkaido in northern Japan. That earthquake, which had a magnitude of 6.1, caused widespread damage and injured dozens of people.
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