Strong M6.4 earthquake hits Shikoku, Japan
https://watchers.news/2024/04/17/strong-m6-4-earthquake-hits-shikoku-japan/
A strong earthquake registered by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) as M6.4 hit Shikoku at 14:14 UTC (23:14 LT) on April 17, 2024. The agency is reporting a depth of 50 km (31 miles). USGS is reporting M6.3 at a depth of 25.7 km (16 miles).
The epicenter was located 17.5 km (10.9 miles) WSW of Uwajima (population 58 971), 29.5 km (18.3 miles) WSW of Kihoku-chō (population 10 772), 33.1 km (20.6 miles) S of Yawatahama (population 31 385), 40.5 km (25.2 miles) SSW of Ōzu (population 38 833), and 73.7 km (45.8 miles) E of Ōita (population 477 715), Japan.
1 000 people are estimated to have felt very strong shaking, 157 000 strong, 1 169 000 moderate, and 16 933 000 light.
There is no tsunami threat from this earthquake.
JMA registered several aftershocks, including M5.0 at 14:19 UTC and M4.3 at 14:27.
The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are heavy wood frame and reinforced/confined masonry construction.
Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides, fires, and liquefaction that might have contributed to losses.