Tokyo: Strong earthquake tremors were felt in Japan on the morning of Sunday, November 1. Its intensity was measured at 6.0 on the Richter scale. The epicenter of the earthquake was reported to be about 58 kilometers south-southeast of Shima, Japan. According to initial information, no major damage or loss of life has been confirmed at present.
At what depth was the epicenter of the earthquake?
According to preliminary data from the US Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter of the earthquake was at a depth of about 352 kilometers from the ground. This earthquake occurred near the coast of Mie Prefecture in Japan. Tremors from deep-centred earthquakes can be felt over a large area, although their impact on the surface may be different at different places.
Japan’s meteorological agency recorded a level three tremor on its seven-point seismic scale in parts of Fukushima Prefecture, according to reports. At present, no tsunami warning has been issued and there was no immediate news of any major damage or loss of life.
Why do earthquakes occur frequently in Japan?
Japan is among those countries in the world where earthquake activities are very high. The main reason for this is that the country is in the area of active tectonic plates located around the Pacific Ocean. Here many plates are in contact with each other and their movement accumulates energy inside the ground. When this energy suddenly comes out, earthquake tremors are felt.
The Earth’s upper layer is divided into many large and small tectonic plates. These plates keep moving at a slow pace. Pressure is created when they collide with each other, go under each other or rub against each other. An earthquake occurs when pressure is suddenly released.
Was there an earthquake even before this?
Earlier, earthquake tremors were felt in Japan on October 25 also. During that time the intensity of the earthquake that occurred near Bonin Island was measured at 6.3. Due to continuous seismic activities, such tremors occur from time to time in Japan.
How is intensity measured on the Richter scale?
Magnitude scale is used to describe the intensity of an earthquake. The energy released during an earthquake is estimated from the numbers recorded in it. Generally, the risk of damage may also increase with increasing intensity, but the actual impact depends on the depth of the earthquake, distance from the center, structure of the ground and strength of buildings.
At present, no major damage has been confirmed after this earthquake in Japan. However, changes in the initial figures are possible and the situation is being monitored.
