Japan: A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs on the Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa Prefecture, at around 18:42 Jan. 16

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred on the Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa Prefecture, at around 18:42 Jan. 16. The epicenter was about 16 km (10 miles) west-southwest of Anamizu, Ishikawa Prefecture. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of the Noto Peninsula close to the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of central Honshu Island. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, 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.

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.