The tsunami advisory prompted by a powerful earthquake near Japan’s Miyazaki Prefecture on Monday has been lifted, according to officials.
While the U.S. Geological Survey recorded a preliminary magnitude of 6.8, the Japan Meteorological Agency classified the quake as lower 5 on its intensity scale ranging from 0 to 7.
According to Japanese and American officials, the earthquake struck at approximately 9:19 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located a few miles offshore and a depth of around 19 miles.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory for Miyazaki and Kochi Prefectures, forecasting waves up to 1 meter high. By around 10 p.m., a tsunami wave approximately 8 inches in height had reached parts of the coast and nearby ports, authorities confirmed. Residents were urged to remain away from coastal areas and waterways. In Kochi Prefecture, evacuation advice was issued for some communities.
About an hour after the earthquake, Japanese weather officials stated that they were still assessing potential disruptions. Some train services were suspended, with no clear timeline for resumption. Authorities cautioned residents to remain in safe locations as aftershocks and additional tremors were possible. They also advised people to watch out for broken glass and debris.
Situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, Japan experiences frequent earthquakes due to the region’s intense seismic and volcanic activity. Last summer, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a serious megathrust earthquake warning after tremors were detected in western Japan, originating from the Hyuga-nada Sea, the same area where Monday’s quake occurred.
Weather agencies reported that two small tsunamis, each measuring around 20 centimeters, were detected at two regional ports. According to public broadcaster NHK TV, a tsunami estimated at up to 1 meter in height reached the shore within 30 minutes of the earthquake. At Miyazaki Port, the waters were reported to have risen by 20 centimeters.
Live television feeds from public broadcaster NHK revealed calm seas, active vessels, and smooth traffic, with local media reporting no immediate injuries or visible damage after the earthquake.