Magnitude 5.7 earthquake injures more than 20 in central Japan

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 08, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

More than 20 people were injured after a magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck central Japan early Sunday, November 8, damaging storefronts, toppling merchandise and disrupting railway services.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the earthquake struck at around 1:04 a.m., with its epicenter in western Shizuoka Prefecture at a depth of approximately 40 kilometers.

The tremor was strongly felt in neighboring Aichi Prefecture, as well as parts of Nagano and Gifu. Shaking was also reported in areas including Hamamatsu, Kyoto, Nara and Yamanashi.

Authorities reported no deaths, but several people sustained injuries after falling while trying to escape buildings. Some residents also required medical attention after being hurt inside their homes.

The earthquake shattered shop windows and sent merchandise tumbling from shelves. Images from affected areas showed broken glass scattered along streets and goods scattered across store floors.

Railway operations were also affected, with some regional services temporarily suspended or delayed. Shinkansen bullet trains in affected areas operated at reduced speeds as a precaution while safety inspections were conducted.

No tsunami warning was issued following the earthquake.

The Japan Meteorological Agency urged residents in affected communities to remain alert for possible strong aftershocks over the coming days, particularly within the next two to three days. Officials also warned of possible landslides and falling rocks, especially if rainfall occurs.

Authorities said there were no apparent changes detected in the Nankai Trough, an area where scientists have long warned of the possibility of a major earthquake.

Japan is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the world’s most seismically active countries.