A 6.9 magnitude earthquake occurred in southwestern Japan, triggering tsunami warnings that were subsequently lifted. Minor injuries were reported, and residents were evacuated as a precaution. Experts are monitoring potential aftershocks and assessing the earthquake’s implications regarding the Nankai Trough.
On Monday, a significant earthquake recorded at a preliminary magnitude of 6.9 struck southwestern Japan, leading to immediate tsunami advisories. Coastal residents were advised to evacuate as a precaution, although these advisories were lifted shortly after midnight with no major damage reported. One individual reportedly sustained minor injuries from a fall in Kyushu, while some passengers were stranded at Miyazaki Station due to halted train services.
A tsunami, which reached a maximum height of one meter, was detected just 30 minutes after the earthquake, with waters measured at 20 centimeters high at Miyazaki Port. Authorities issued warnings for the Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures primarily impacted by the quake. Caution was also advised regarding potential landslides and falling objects, as explained by agency official Shigeki Aoki, who noted aftershocks may continue for a week following the initial event.
The earthquake, registered at a depth of 30 kilometers, caused shaking across a broad area of Kyushu, Japan’s southwestern main island. The country is prone to seismic activity due to its position on the “Ring of Fire,” characterized by numerous volcanoes and fault lines. Despite the earthquake’s severity, NHK footage showed functional emergency responses, such as active traffic and operational electric power, with no nuclear monitoring stations indicating concerns.
Experts at the meteorological agency convened to analyze the connection between this activity and historical earthquakes at the Nankai Trough, known for its significant seismic risks. They determined that no extraordinary measures were necessary at this time despite the historical context, including a devastating 1946 quake that resulted in over 1,300 fatalities.
In conclusion, a 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck southwestern Japan, prompting tsunami warnings that were later revoked. While there were no significant damages, safety precautions were enforced, including evacuations in coastal areas. Experts continue to monitor the situation for potential aftershocks and historical connections to the Nankai Trough without implementing extraordinary measures at this time. Japan’s frequent seismic activity underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in earthquake preparedness.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
