Japan: Authorities suspend Hokuriku Shinkansen after magnitude-6.2 offshore earthquake off the coast of western Honshu at around 14:42 May 5 /update 1

Event

Authorities have suspended the Hokuriku Shinkansen between Kanazawa and Nagano stations following a magnitude-6.2 earthquake that occurred off the coast of northern Ishikawa Prefecture at around 14:42 May 5. Officials have also suspended multiple local trains as a precaution and may temporarily shut down additional transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if crews determine there is no damage. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Additionally, initial reports indicate the collapse of two buildings in Suzu City, Ishikawa Prefecture. Authorities are checking for potential damages to the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Station in Kashiwazaki City and Kariwa Village in Niigata Prefecture.

The earthquake's epicenter was about 120 km (75 miles) north-northeast of Kanazawa. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 9 km (5 miles), and very strong shaking was probably felt in far northern Ishikawa Prefecture, with strong to moderate shaking likely felt in the rest of northern Ishikawa Prefecture. Light shaking was probably felt throughout western Honshu. There have been no initial reports of casualties as a result of the earthquake; additional damage is possible, particularly in parts of northern Ishikawa Prefecture nearest the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate to strong aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

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.