Severe Earthquake in Western Japan Leaves Casualties

A severe earthquake shook Osaka in western Japan on Monday morning, June 18. Although no tsunami warning has been issued, the earthquake has resulted in several deaths and injuries. Current reports indicate at least three people have died and over 40 have been injured. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers in northern Osaka Prefecture, with a magnitude reported between 5.9 and 6.1. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake's intensity was rated as '6-', on a scale from zero to seven, where seven indicates extremely severe earthquakes. The Japan Times states that this earthquake is considered 'one of the strongest' in recent years. Besides Osaka, the earthquake has had repercussions in Hyogo, Kyoto, Shiga, and Nara. Osaka is a prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan, with a capital city of the same name, which is one of the largest cities in the country. The prefectures of Shiga, Hyogo, and Nara are located near Osaka, while Kyoto is also one of the largest cities in the Kansai region. Kyodo News reported fires occurring in parts of Osaka, stating that 'several' people have been injured. According to Kyodo, a 9-year-old girl trapped under debris in a pool in Takatsuki city due to a wall collapse is among the deceased. Japanese officials have reported that some buildings have been damaged. Reports indicate that the operation of the Shinkansen bullet train was halted on Monday morning. The Shinkansen train network in Japan includes high-speed trains and rail lines connecting cities to Tokyo and other regions. According to Kansai Electric Power, electricity has been cut off to at least 170,000 homes in Osaka and Hyogo. However, Yoshihide Suga, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, told reporters that no reports of severe damage have been received by the government. Earthquakes are a very common occurrence in Japan, and the country has relatively extensive preparedness to protect citizens and structures. Nevertheless, some severe earthquakes in Japan have left hundreds and sometimes thousands of casualties. In 1995, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.3 (Japan Meteorological Agency rating: 7) occurred in the same region, resulting in over 6,400 deaths. The Japan Meteorological Agency's ratings also explain the consequences of earthquakes for citizens, structures, and objects. For example, it is said that during an earthquake rated 6-, it is very difficult to remain stable, and unsecured household items may shift or fall.