TOKYO, Jan 23 — A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck Fukushima Prefecture's Aizu region early Thursday and the Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of potential aftershocks of similar magnitude over the coming week, urging residents to stay vigilant against landslides, avalanches, and falling snow, reported Xinhua.
The earthquake occurred at 2.49am local time, with its epicentre at a depth of four km in the Aizu area and registering a seismic intensity of lower than five on the Japanese scale of seven in Hinoemata village.
Tremors of intensity three were felt in parts of Fukushima, Tochigi, Gunma, and Niigata Prefectures, while weaker shakes were observed across a broader area, including the Kanto and Tohoku regions. No tsunami warnings were issued.
Since Tuesday, seismic activity in the region has increased, with 15 aftershocks of intensity one or greater recorded by 5am local time on Thursday, national broadcaster NHK reported.
No reports of injuries or damage have been received, according to local officials, police, and fire departments. Authorities remain on high alert for potential aftershocks and secondary disasters.
— Bernama
