Mon Jan 13 23:32:34 UTC 2025: ## Magnitude 6.6 Earthquake Strikes Southwest Japan, Tsunami Advisory Briefly Issued

**MIYAZAKI, Japan (CBS/AP) —** A magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck southwestern Japan on Monday evening, prompting a brief tsunami advisory for Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) initially reported a stronger magnitude of 6.9, but later revised the figure down. The U.S. Geological Survey also revised its initial estimate downwards.

While a small tsunami, reaching a maximum height of 3.2 feet, did reach land within 30 minutes of the 9:19 PM quake, the advisory was lifted shortly before midnight. There were no significant reports of damage or casualties, aside from one minor injury reported by NHK TV. Train services were temporarily suspended in Miyazaki Station. Waters at Miyazaki Port measured 8 inches high.

The quake, centered at a depth of 18.6 miles, shook a wide area of Kyushu. NHK footage showed that power remained largely unaffected. Nuclear power plants in the region also reported no issues.

JMA officials urged residents to remain vigilant against aftershocks, possible landslides, and falling objects. They also advised staying away from coastal areas, emphasizing the potential for repeated tsunami waves. The agency convened to assess any potential link to the Nankai Trough, a seismically active region, but decided against any immediate extraordinary measures.

Japan, situated along the Ring of Fire, experiences frequent seismic activity. While the country has stringent building codes and conducts regular disaster drills, the memory of the devastating 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami remains a stark reminder of the potential for catastrophic events. This latest quake follows other significant tremors in Japan in recent years, including a deadly earthquake in Noto in January 2024.

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