Japan: A magnitude-5.8 earthquake occurs in Ishikawa Prefecture at around 21:58 May 5

Event

A magnitude-5.8 earthquake occurred on the tip of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture at around 21:58 May 5. The epicenter was about 45 km (28 miles) northeast of Anamizu, Ishikawa Prefecture. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 14 km (9 miles), and strong-to-moderate shaking was probably felt near the epicenter and moderate shaking across much of Ishikawa Prefecture. Light shaking was likely felt across much of western Honshu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; the quake was likely an aftershock of an earlier magnitude-6.2 tremor that occurred in a similar location at around 14;42 May 5. The earlier quake resulted in one fatality and 22 injuries, as well as causing a few homes to collapse and minor damage to several other buildings. Rail services were temporarily suspended following the first earthquake, and similar actions will likely be taken following the latest tremor, especially as some infrastructure may have already been weakened by the initial quake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate-to-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

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.