Japan was rattled by a strong 6.0 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Honshu island on Tuesday, just over a week after the country witnessed devastating tremors that left over 160 dead.
According to Japan’s meteorological agency, the latest earthquake occurred around 2:29 pm local time in the Pacific Ocean near Honshu, the largest and most populous island comprising much of the nation’s main island.
While no warning has been issued, the National Centre for Seismology said the quake resulted in strong shaking along parts of the country’s west coast.
So far there have been no immediate reports of major damage or casualties from the 6.0 magnitude temblor.
But it serves as yet another reminder of Japan’s vulnerability to frequent seismic activity. Last Wednesday, the mountain town of Kurayoshi in Ishikawa prefecture was battered by a magnitude 7.5 earthquake.
Over 160 people lost their lives in the powerful New Year’s Day quake, while several thousand homes suffered water and power supply disruptions due to damages. Rescue work continues to retrieve missing people buried under rubble.
Heavy snow since then has hampered rescue and rehabilitation efforts, with damaged roads cutting off essential supplies to thousands in isolated towns across the affected Noto peninsula.
The inclement weather also heightens risks of additional landslides and building structures collapsing under thick snow deposits in the coming days.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has made rescue and medical assistance for survivors the utmost priority while directing special efforts to restore lifeline infrastructure and amenities in the region ravaged by last week’s tragedy. Tuesday’s tremors are likely to further test the resilience of local communities.
