TOKYO, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck Fukushima Prefecture's Aizu region early Thursday and the Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of potential aftershocks of similar magnitude over the coming week, urging residents to stay vigilant against landslides, avalanches, and falling snow.
The earthquake occurred at 2:49 a.m. local time, with its epicenter at a depth of 4 km in the Aizu area and registering a seismic intensity of lower 5 on the Japanese scale of 7 in Hinoemata village.
Tremors of intensity 3 were felt in parts of Fukushima, Tochigi, Gunma, and Niigata Prefectures, while weaker shakes were observed across a broader area, including the Kanto and Tohoku regions. No tsunami warnings were issued.
Since Tuesday, seismic activity in the region has increased, with 15 aftershocks of intensity 1 or greater recorded by 5:00 a.m. local time Thursday, national broadcaster NHK reported.
No reports of injuries or damage have been received, according to local officials, police, and fire departments. Authorities remain on high alert for potential aftershocks and secondary disasters. ■
