Powerful earthquake jolts central Japan, injuring at least 22 people

The earthquake hit at 1:04 am local time Sunday, with its epicenter located approximately 40 kilometers below the surface in Shizuoka Prefecture, according to Japan's Meteorological Agency. The US Geological Survey recorded the quake at magnitude 5.5, slightly lower than the Japanese agency's initial assessment. Multiple aftershocks were subsequently reported in the region.

The tremor affected a extensive area of central Japan, impacting Aichi Prefecture and the city of Hamamatsu, as well as the historic capitals of Kyoto and Nara. The neighboring prefectures of Yamanashi, home to Mount Fuji, and Gifu also experienced significant shaking.

Television footage broadcast from the affected areas documented widespread damage typical of such seismic events. Store windows were shattered across multiple locations, with glass shards scattered along streets. A bookstore suffered substantial losses as volumes tumbled from shelves onto the floor. Several of the 22 reported injuries were sustained by people who fell from stairs while attempting to evacuate their buildings in the immediate aftermath of the quake.

Japan, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent seismic activity. Scientists and emergency management officials continue monitoring the situation for any significant secondary tremors.