At least 22 people have been injured in a magnitude 5.7 earthquake that struck central Japan. The tremor shattered shop windows and caused damage to several buildings in different areas.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported the earthquake’s magnitude at 5.7, while the United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded it at 5.5. Several aftershocks were felt in the area following the main quake.

According to the Associated Press (AP), the earthquake struck at 1:04 a.m. local time. Its epicentre was in Shizuoka Prefecture. Tremors were felt across a wide area, including Hamamatsu city in the neighbouring Aichi region. The impact was also felt in Yamanashi, where Mount Fuji is located. However, Tokyo did not experience the tremors due to its distance from the affected areas.

Videos broadcast on Japanese television after the earthquake showed broken glass scattered across roads and books lying on the floor after falling from the shelves of a bookstore. Most of the injured people reportedly sustained injuries on staircases while rushing downstairs during the tremor.

Meanwhile, as a precautionary measure, Shinkansen bullet trains are operating at reduced speeds in the affected areas. The measure has been taken to inspect railway tracks for possible cracks or damage.

Source: AP