15 Oct 2023 | 10:38 AM UTC
Japan: A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurred southeast of the coast of Japan, North Pacific Ocean at around 18:13 Oct. 15
A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs southeast of Japan at around 18:13 Oct. 15. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred off the southeast coast of Japan at around 18:13 Oct. 15. The epicenter was approximately 196 km (122 miles) southeast of Katsuura. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 16 km (9 miles) and shaking was probably felt throughout the eastern Shizuoka, Kanagawa, Tokyo, far eastern Saitama, and Chiba prefectures. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. 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.
