Earthquake Today: 5.5 Magnitude Tremors Jolt Southwestern Japan

(MENAFN- Live Mint) A 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck southwestern Japan on Thursday, July 3, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The earthquake's epicentre was off the coast of the Tokara island chain in Kagoshima prefecture, nearly 1,200 kilometres away from Tokyo.

While the earthquake was near to strong, no tsunami warning was issued. Ayataka Ebita, director of the earthquake and tsunami observation division of the Japan Meteorological Agency, said,“In areas where the tremors were strong, there is an increased risk of collapsed houses and landslides.”

“Please be aware of earthquakes of similar magnitude for the foreseeable future,” he said. Also Read | Over 470 earthquakes rattle Japanese island chain with active volcanoes

Seismic intensity of '6 lower' on Japan's 1-7 scale was observed at Akuseki Island, the agency added.

As many as 1,000 earthquakes of various intensities have jolted Tokara island chain south of Kyushu region. The Japanese authorities urged the 89 residents of a small southern island to evacuate after a strong earthquake.

A spike in seismic activity was observed in the Tokara region in September 2023, when the area experienced 346 earthquakes within a short span. Also Read | Japan's terrifying 'megaquake' forecast: What is the Nankai Trough threat?

Meanwhile, viral rumours of an impending“megaquake” – sparked by a comic book prediction – have cast a shadow over Japan's tourism boom, prompting some airlines to cancel flights from Hong Kong as passenger numbers plummet.

The Japanese government said that much more needs to be done to prepare for a possible “megaquake” to reduce the feared death toll of up to 300,000 people. "It is necessary for the nation, municipalities, companies and non-profits to come together and take measures in order to save as many lives as possible," Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said.

(With agency inputs)

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