Japan: Magnitude-5.4 earthquake strikes on the Noto Peninsula in central Honshu Sept. 16

Event

A magnitude-5.4 earthquake struck on the Noto Peninsula in central Honshu at around 16:42 Sept. 16. The epicenter was about 52 km (32 miles) north-northeast of Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate-to-strong shaking occurred near the epicenter. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, light-to-weak shaking affected several nearby prefectures, especially those on the Sea of Japan north of the epicenter. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties because of the earthquake; however, some damage is possible. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.