18 Mar 2022 | 03:08 PM UTC
Japan: Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs off the northeast coast of Honshu Island March 18
Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs northeast of Honshu, Japan, at around 23:25 March 18. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred off the east coast of Iwate Prefecture in northeastern Honshu Island at around 23:25 March 18. The epicenter was about 54 km (34 miles) southeast of Hachinohe. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 35 km (22 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of northern Honshu and far southern Hokkaido islands. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
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
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
