Strong earthquake hits Japan; possible casualties and damage

A large earthquake hit central Japan Friday afternoon, although there was no tsunami threat. Authorities were investigating injuries and damage.

Authorities were investigating probable casualties, according to government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno. He stated structures were damaged, but specifics were being confirmed.

The U.S. Geological Survey’s seismic information center reported a 6.2 quake in Ishikawa prefecture on Honshu’s central west coast at 2:42 p.m. The Japan Meteorological Agency initially estimated 6.3, then 6.5. The depth was 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency recorded two injuries in Suzu City, Ishikawa, on the northern point of the Noto Peninsula: one person fell from a ladder and was found without vital signs, while another was injured when a cabinet collapsed on them. Even if their hearts cease beating, Japanese reports do not designate persons as dead until a doctor declares them dead.

The service reported two rescues from damaged buildings and a fifth injury from falling.
Matsuno said the two big nuclear reactors had no issues.

East Japan Railway Co. said Shinkansen super-express bullet trains between Tokyo and Kanazawa in quake-hit Ishikawa prefecture were momentarily paused for safety inspections but have resumed normal operations with delays.

Japan is earthquake-prone. The 2011 northeast earthquake generated a tsunami and nuclear plant meltdown that continues to resonate.