Patricia CaleonA powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck southern Kyushu, Japan, on 8 Aug 2024, Thursday afternoon. The tremor registered a lower 6 on the Japanese seismic intensity scale and caused a tsunami advisory to be issued for the east and south coasts of Kyushu and the south coast of Shikoku, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
Tsunami advisory currently in effect
Image credit: The Japan Times
The earthquake struck at a depth of around 33 kilometers (20 miles) off the coast of Miyazaki prefecture, according to the JMA. As of writing, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or widespread damage. However, authorities are strongly advising residents in affected areas to evacuate to higher ground as a precaution against potential tsunami waves.
The Japanese government has set up a special task force to coordinate rescue and relief efforts to everyone under affected areas. The JMA is also closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
Featured image credit (R): Ray Bilcliff via Canva Pro
