A powerful 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck central Japan on Monday morning without causing major damage or triggering a tsunami warning, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
The earthquake occurred at 6:31 am (21:31 GMT Sunday), according to the agency, at the tip of the Noto Peninsula. This same area, mostly rural and bordering the Sea of Japan, was the epicenter of the earthquake that struck on New Year’s, killing more than 260 people.
Authorities reported Monday that three houses collapsed, but no injuries were reported.
NHK showed footage of at least one house whose walls were damaged.
Government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi confirmed that no defect had been discovered in the country’s nuclear power plants.
Several aftershocks occurred, including a 4.8 magnitude tremor ten minutes after the first tremor.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said on its website: “The region has been exposed to seismic activity for more than three years, including a 7.6-magnitude earthquake on January 1 this year, and this is expected to continue in the near future, so continue to be vigilant.” caution”.
The agency stressed the risks that could be caused by landslides and rock falls in this area, which are risks enhanced by rain and earthquakes.
The New Year’s earthquake destroyed a large number of homes and infrastructure in Noto, at a time when families were gathering to celebrate the transition to 2024.
On Monday, the Japanese Broadcasting Corporation asked residents of the area struck by the earthquake to remain calm and beware of falling objects.
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