Mon Jan 13 17:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Strong Earthquake Shakes Southwestern Japan, Minor Tsunami Follows

**MIYAZAKI, JAPAN** – A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck southwestern Japan on Monday evening, triggering a tsunami warning and causing minor waves, but causing no reported damage or injuries. The quake, which hit approximately 18 kilometers off the coast of Miyazaki prefecture at a depth of 36 kilometers, prompted the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue a tsunami warning, predicting waves up to one meter high.

Two small tsunamis, measuring around 20 centimeters, were subsequently observed at local ports. However, NHK, Japan’s public broadcaster, reported calm seas and normal operations, with no visible damage to infrastructure or reports of injuries.

Japan, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly susceptible to seismic activity. While the vast majority of the approximately 1,500 earthquakes experienced annually are minor, the country maintains stringent building codes and conducts regular emergency drills to prepare for major events. The nation’s history includes devastating earthquakes, most notably the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, which resulted in a major nuclear accident at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant. While the JMA is investigating potential links between Monday’s quake and previous seismic activity, officials currently reported no further risks.

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