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10 May 2023 | 08:20 PM UTC

Japan: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs near coast of Chiba Prefecture at around 04:16 JST May 11

Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs near coast of Chiba Prefecture, Japan, at 04:16 JST May 11. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.

Informational

Event

A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurred near the coast of Chiba Prefecture at around 04:16 JST May 11. The epicenter was about 9 km (6 miles) west-southwest of Katsuura, Japan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 36 km (22 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of Honshu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. 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.