6.6-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Southwestern Japan; Tsunami Advisory Issued and Lifted

On January 13, 2025, a 6.6-magnitude earthquake struck southwestern Japan at 9:19 p.m. local time, with its epicenter in the Hyuga-Nada Sea.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami advisory for the Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures, warning of potential waves up to 1 meter (3.2 feet).

Approximately 30 minutes post-quake, a 20-centimeter (0.7 feet) tsunami was observed at Miyazaki Port.

The advisory was lifted shortly before midnight after no significant tsunami materialized.

While no major structural damage was reported, a man in Kyushu sustained minor injuries, and train services in Miyazaki were temporarily halted.

Japan, situated along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," is prone to seismic activity. The JMA continues to monitor crustal movements, particularly along the Nankai Trough, due to concerns about potential future seismic events in the region.