6.9 magnitude earthquake ‘shakes’ Japan and triggers tsunami warning

Magnitude 6.9 Earthquake in Japan.

Authorities issue warning.

Earthquake monitoring continues.

A powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.9 shook southwestern Japan on Monday, triggering tsunami warnings in several coastal regions.

The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the earthquake’s epicenter was located in Miyazaki Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, around 9:19 p.m. local time.

Authorities issued tsunami warnings for Miyazaki and the neighboring Kochi Prefecture, expecting waves of up to one meter in height.

The Japanese seismic scale classified the earthquake with a five-minus intensity on its seven-level system, indicating possible moderate damage.

Earthquake recorded in Japan

Magnitude 6.9 earthquake recorded in Japan Photo: Shutterstock

According to this scale, earthquakes of this magnitude can cause cracks in windows, movement in electric poles, and minor damage to roads.

Experts also warned about the possibility of rock collapses and landslides in the affected areas.

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The European-Mediterranean Seismological Center confirmed that the earthquake had a depth of 37 kilometers, which could amplify its effects on the surface.

Despite the intensity of the tremor, local authorities indicated that the total extent of the damage is still being assessed, as reported by Daily Mail.

Emergency teams have been deployed to the most affected areas to inspect potential structural damage and address any related incidents.

So far, no victims or serious injuries have been reported, but evaluations are ongoing.

The coastal communities of Miyazaki and Kochi have been evacuated as a precaution while sea activity is being monitored.

Japan, located in the Pacific’s «Ring of Fire,» is one of the most earthquake-prone nations in the world.

This tectonic belt is made up of a chain of volcanoes and faults that generate intense seismic and volcanic activity.

Earthquakes in this region are frequent, and in many cases, they are accompanied by tsunami warnings due to their proximity to the sea.

The Japanese population is highly trained to face these types of emergencies, thanks to rigorous preparedness programs.

However, the fear of an event similar to the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami is always present.

On that occasion, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake triggered a tsunami that killed more than 15,000 people and caused a nuclear disaster in Fukushima.

In the wake of that tragedy, Japan has significantly reinforced its infrastructure and early warning systems.

The Japan Meteorological Agency is closely monitoring the situation and will issue updates as more information becomes available.

Residents of the affected areas are urged to remain alert and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Television and radio stations have interrupted their regular programming to broadcast real-time emergency bulletins.

Additionally, social media has been a key tool for spreading information and reporting incidents.

Experts remind that, although current tsunami warnings predict relatively low waves, it is crucial not to underestimate the danger.

Even smaller waves can cause significant damage to coastal infrastructure and pose a risk to people.

Authorities are expected to provide a more detailed report in the coming hours on the consequences of the earthquake in Japan.

Meanwhile, the priority is to ensure the safety of residents and minimize potential additional damage, as noted by Daily Mail.

This event serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and collaboration in emergency situations.

Japan continues to demonstrate its ability to respond to these challenges, reaffirming its commitment to the safety and well-being of its population.

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PHOTO: MundoNOW