Earthquake of 6.8 magnitude strikes Japan, tsunami advisory issued

An earthquake of 6.8 magnitude struck Japan’s southwestern region late on Monday (Jan 13), prompting authorities to issue a tsunami advisory. 

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami advisory for waves up to one metre following the earthquake off the Miyazaki prefecture in the Kyushu region at around 9.19 pm local time.

The agency said, “Tsunami can strike repeatedly. Please do not enter the sea or go near coastal areas.”

Earthquake estimate revised

Earlier, the US Geological Survey (USGS), revised its earthquake estimate down from 6.9 magnitude, saying that there was no tsunami threat from this quake. 

Also read | Tibet earthquake: Aftershocks continue to rattle region

Japan is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries.

A look at major quakes in 2024

Monday’s quake in Japan came months after a quake with a 7.1 magnitude hit the southwestern region in early August 2024, triggering tsunami advisories. 

The quake was reported off the  Miyazaki prefecture on the western major island of Kyushu.

On January 1 last year, a powerful earthquake hit Suzu, Wajima and surrounding areas, killing over 300 people. 

(With inputs from agencies)