A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck southwestern Japan on January 13, 2025, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami advisory for Kagoshima and surrounding areas. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) confirmed the earthquake occurred at 10:45 a.m. local time, with its epicenter offshore in the East China Sea.
The advisory warned of potential one-meter-high waves along coastal regions, urging residents to evacuate to higher ground. NHK World reported minor surges in wave activity but no significant damage. The advisory was lifted after two hours without any major incidents.
Residents in Kyushu described the tremors as intense and prolonged. “It felt like the ground was swaying endlessly,” one Kagoshima City resident told CNN. Reports of minor property damage, including broken glass and fallen household items, surfaced across the region. Public transportation services, including the Kyushu Shinkansen, temporarily suspended operations to inspect rail lines.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida assured the public that disaster response teams were fully mobilized. “Our priority is the safety and security of our citizens,” he stated during a televised announcement.
This seismic event underscores Japan’s vulnerability to earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Fox Weather highlighted the region’s extensive preparedness measures, including early warning systems and community evacuation drills, which played a critical role in minimizing the impact.
Seismologists warn of possible aftershocks in the coming days and urge residents to remain cautious. Despite the advisory’s minimal impact, experts stress the importance of adhering to evacuation guidelines to ensure safety during such events.
Japan’s resilience in the face of natural disasters was once again evident, as swift action and clear communication helped avert potential tragedy.
