In parts of Tokyo, the intensity of the shaking was registering as 5+ on Japan’s Shindo scale of 7. It was a reminder of the intensity felt after the March 2011 earthquake in Northeast Japan.
TV and social media images showed flooding streets with water overflowing manholes. And train stations and commercial buildings were left without power.
Although public transportation was temporarily disrupted, most transport services were restored by the morning. The subway system, both overground and bullet train services were temporarily suspended. And the Haneda airport was briefly closed in order to have safety checks on its runways. Some commuters still experienced significant delays during the morning rush hour.
Earth scientists and the Japanese government predict a 70% chance of an earthquake striking the heart of Tokyo in the next 30 years. And simulations forecast as many as 23,000 deaths are possible, in such an event.
