6.9 Magnitude Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Advisory in Southern Japan

TOKYO, Japan – A 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of southwestern Japan on Monday evening, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami advisory for several regions. The quake occurred at 9:19 p.m. local time (7:19 a.m. ET) near Miyazaki province on the island of Kyushu, with tremors felt across southern Japan.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake’s epicenter was approximately 7 miles east-southeast of Miyazaki at a depth of 30 miles. Authorities warned residents in Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures to avoid coastal areas and refrain from entering the sea until further notice.

“We urge everyone to stay away from the coast and remain vigilant,” a spokesperson for the Japan Meteorological Agency said. The agency issued a tsunami warning for waves up to 3 feet in height along the southeastern shores of Kyushu and Shikoku islands.

No immediate reports of damage or injuries have been confirmed. Miyazaki, located about 560 miles southwest of Tokyo, is a region known for its seismic activity. The earthquake’s depth and offshore location may have mitigated some of the potential impacts on land.

While the tsunami advisory remains in effect, officials are closely monitoring sea levels and coastal conditions. The Japan Meteorological Agency emphasized that there is no tsunami threat to the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, or Hawaii.

Residents in affected areas have been advised to stay tuned to local news and emergency alerts for updates. The agency also recommended downloading the NHK World app for real-time notifications on the situation.

This is the latest in a series of seismic events to hit Japan, a country situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic activity frequently triggers earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. In 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated northeastern Japan, causing widespread destruction and the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

As the situation develops, authorities continue to assess the earthquake’s impact and provide guidance to ensure public safety.