Over 450 Quakes Hit Japanese Island

A series of earthquakes has shaken the remote Tokara island chain in southern Japan, with over 470 tremors recorded since Saturday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious as seismic activity in the area continues.

The JMA reported that, as of Thursday morning, a total of 474 earthquakes had occurred in the Tokara Islands, located south of Kyushu.

These quakes have all registered at least level one on Japan’s seven-point seismic scale, which indicates tremors that may be barely felt by people sitting still indoors.

In a statement, the JMA warned, “Seismic activity has increased. As this region has experienced similar long-lasting earthquake periods in the past, please stay alert for quakes that could cause strong shaking.”

The most powerful of the recent tremors were two earthquakes measuring magnitude 5.1, recorded on Sunday and Tuesday. These were felt at level four intensity — a level where many people are startled, dishes may rattle, and light fixtures swing noticeably.

This isn’t the first time the Tokara region has experienced such earthquake swarms. Back in September 2023, a similar situation occurred, with 346 quakes recorded over a 15-day period, public broadcaster NHK noted.

The Tokara Islands are made up of 12 islands, only seven of which are inhabited. Around 700 people live across these small, isolated islands, some of which contain active volcanoes. 

Due to their remote location, access is limited to a ferry that operates twice a week — and only in favorable weather.

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Experts are closely monitoring the situation. Hisayoshi Yokose, a marine volcanologist and associate professor at Kumamoto University, told NHK that a stronger quake could happen. 

“An earthquake of up to magnitude-6 strength could take place, so please be vigilant,” he said.

Japan is known for its high earthquake activity. The country sits on the edge of four major tectonic plates, making it part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire” — a hotspot for seismic and volcanic activity. Each year, Japan experiences around 1,500 earthquakes, making up roughly 18% of the world’s total.

Although many of these quakes are minor, their effects can vary depending on their depth and location. In some cases, they cause serious destruction. 

For instance, on January 1, 2024, a powerful earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula in central Japan, resulting in over 400 deaths. The disaster destroyed buildings, caused fires, and disrupted infrastructure during the New Year celebrations.

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