More than 20 injured after earthquake in central Japan

In central Japan, a magnitude 5.7 earthquake hit Aichi Prefecture in particular. According to media reports, at least 24 people were injured. Japanese authorities warn of possible aftershocks.

The quake started at around one o'clock local time, as ARD correspondent Christoph Kober reports. Television images showed broken shop windows and broken glass on the streets. People fled buildings.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the epicenter was around 40 kilometers deep in Shizuoka Prefecture. The tremors were felt most strongly in the neighboring prefecture of Aichi. The cities of Kyoto and Nara as well as the prefectures of Gifu and Yamanashi were also affected.

Authorities warn of possible further quakes

In Aichi, the authorities initially reported 16 injuries. In neighboring Shizuoka Prefecture, rescue workers treated at least three people. The tremors were also felt in the western Japanese city of Osaka.

The earthquake caused delays and cancellations in rail traffic. In addition to regional transport, Shinkansen bullet trains were also affected.

The earthquake was followed by even weaker aftershocks. The weather agency called on the population to prepare for possible further earthquakes in the coming days. Landslides and rockfalls must also be expected. However, there is no danger of a tsunami following the earthquake.