Japan: 5.1-magnitude earthquake hits Miyagi (south) March 23

Event

A 5.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast of Miyagi Prefecture in southern Japan at around 06:30 (local time) on Friday, March 23. The offshore quake originated at a depth of 50 km (30 mi) and was felt as a 7-magnitude tremor in parts of Miyagi. No tsunami warning was issued and no damage has been reported, including at nuclear power plants in the region.

Aftershocks, potentially stronger than the initial tremor, are possible in the coming hours and days.

Context

Japan sits at the junction of four tectonic plates and experiences a number of relatively violent earthquakes every year. Rigid building codes and strict enforcement mean even strong tremors often do little damage. However, a massive undersea quake in March 2011 near Fukushima sent a tsunami barreling into Japan's northeastern coast, leaving more than 18,000 people dead or missing and sending three reactors into meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant. In April 2016, two strong earthquakes followed by more than 1700 aftershocks hit the southern prefecture of Kumamoto, leaving at least 50 dead and causing widespread damage.

Advice

Individuals in affected regions are advised to be prepared for possible aftershocks.

Generally speaking, after a powerful earthquake, check for damages and take note of your surroundings. If indoors, shut off water, gas, and electricity lines and evacuate the building.