Breaking News: Over 1,000 Earthquakes Hit Tokara Islands – Stay Alert for Seismic Activity
Since the 21st of last month, the waters near the Tokara Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture have been rattled by a relentless series of earthquakes. As of noon on the 3rd, the number of quakes has surpassed 1,000, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue an ongoing warning for residents and visitors to remain cautious of seismic activity in the coming days.
Intense Seismic Activity Grips the Region
The Tokara Islands have experienced a surge in earthquake activity, with two significant quakes registering a seismic intensity of 5-lower striking on the 2nd alone. Between the 21st of last month and noon on the 3rd, a total of 1,001 earthquakes with a seismic intensity of 1 or higher have been recorded, underscoring the heightened unrest in this remote island chain.
JMA: “No End in Sight Yet”
In a press conference held on the 2nd, the JMA explained that the current earthquake swarm is unpredictable. “We’ve seen both prolonged and sporadic patterns in the past, so it’s impossible to say when this will stop or slow down,” officials noted. They also highlighted that the region has previously experienced stronger quakes, including ones reaching a seismic intensity of 5-upper. With this in mind, the agency is urging people to brace for similar levels of shaking as a precaution.
Stay Safe: Watch for Falling Rocks and Landslides
The JMA emphasized that the intense seismic activity shows no signs of letting up. Until it subsides, they’re advising everyone in the area to stay vigilant—not just for earthquakes, but also for secondary hazards like falling rocks and landslides, especially with rain adding to the risks.
