NHK Anchor Rushed to Studio Within 20 Minutes After Earthquake, Broadcast Makeup-Free
Bastillepost · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck western Shizuoka Prefecture in central Japan on Sunday, prompting an immediate response from NHK Nagano branch anchor Kiyoka Inai (稻井清香), who rushed to the studio within 20 minutes to deliver a live broadcast without any makeup. The incident occurred at approximately 1:04 AM, with the epicenter located about 40 kilometers underground . Inai appeared on camera wearing glasses with her hair slightly messy, having come directly from her home in Nagano City . Her swift action and professional dedication drew widespread praise from Japanese netizens, who lauded her commitment to delivering authoritative information to the public during the crisis .
Key Points
- Earthquake Details: A 5.7-magnitude tremor struck western Shizuoka Prefecture on Sunday at 1:04 AM, with a focal depth of approximately 40 kilometers, and no tsunami was triggered .
- Anchor's Response: Kiyoka Inai arrived at the NHK studio within 20 minutes of the earthquake, appearing live without makeup while wearing glasses, her hair slightly disheveled .
- Previous Incident: In April 2026, Inai similarly rushed back within 10 minutes during consecutive strong earthquakes in Nagano Prefecture, appearing breathless and experiencing hyperventilation .
- Professional Recognition: Japanese netizens praised her high professional spirit and sense of responsibility, thanking her for delivering authoritative information during the crisis .
- Background: Inai joined NHK in 2024 and has been stationed at the Nagano broadcasting station, actively participating in disaster prevention broadcasts and volcano safety activities .
Why It Matters
This incident highlights the critical role broadcasters play during natural disasters, demonstrating how journalists prioritize public safety over personal appearance during emergencies . Inai's actions exemplify the dedication required in broadcast journalism, particularly in earthquake-prone regions like Japan, where rapid and accurate information dissemination can save lives .
This incident highlights the critical role broadcasters play during natural disasters, demonstrating how journalists prioritize public safety over personal appearance during emergencies . Inai's actions exemplify the dedication required in broadcast journalism, particularly in earthquake-prone regions like Japan, where rapid and accurate information dissemination can save lives .