A powerful earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Japan’s Miyazaki Prefecture on Monday night, prompting officials to issue a tsunami advisory for the region. The quake occurred around 9:19 p.m. and had its epicenter located a few miles offshore at a depth of approximately 19 miles, according to reports from the U.S. Geological Survey and Japan Meteorological Agency.
The intensity of the quake was recorded at lower 5 on Japan’s scale of 0 to 7. Following the seismic event, the Japan Meteorological Agency warned residents in Miyazaki and neighboring Kochi Prefectures to remain vigilant, predicting tsunami waves of about 1 meter in height. Reports indicated that a tsunami wave measuring roughly 8 inches reached certain coastal areas and ports around 10 p.m. local time, leading to evacuation advisories for some residents in Kochi Prefecture.
As authorities continue to collect information regarding potential disruptions, some train services have been temporarily halted, though there has been no official word on when operations will resume. While officials have urged residents to stay away from coastal areas and to be on guard for aftershocks and debris from the earthquake, no significant damage or abnormalities in radiation levels at nearby nuclear facilities have been reported.
The situation remains fluid as officials monitor for aftershocks and assess the impact of the earthquake. For now, the public is encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety.
In the wake of such natural disasters, it is crucial for communities to remain resilient and support one another. The lack of significant damage and the alertness of officials provide a glimmer of hope that recovery efforts can proceed smoothly if needed.