Kagoshima Offshore Earthquakes Intensify in Japan, Over 100 Tremors in a Single Day Set New Record | WPN World People News

A series of earthquakes has been shaking the waters near Japan’s Tokara Islands (トカラ列島) in Kagoshima Prefecture since June 21. On June 29 alone, 103 tremors were recorded — marking a recent record in seismic activity. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quakes are mainly concentrated around Akusekijima and Kobirojima islands, causing ongoing concern among local residents.

As of now, the total number of earthquakes has exceeded 600 and is nearing 700. On June 29, Akusekijima experienced at least three quakes with magnitudes over 4.0 — the highest daily total since June 24. A 73-year-old fisherman said he is frequently jolted awake at night by the sound of earthquakes and has reduced his fishing hours while reinforcing furniture at home to prevent damage.

The waters near Suwanosejima, Kobirojima, and Akusekijima are historically known for frequent seismic swarms. In September 2023, 292 felt quakes were recorded in just two days.

Although there have been no reports of injuries or property damage so far, the Japan Meteorological Agency has urged residents to remain alert for aftershocks and continuous shaking. People are advised to check disaster preparedness measures, including securing furniture at home. On the morning of June 30, 26 additional quakes were observed, the largest with a magnitude of 4.1. Later that afternoon, a magnitude 5.1 quake struck the area, reaching a seismic intensity of upper 5 on Japan’s scale. No tsunami was generated, but the event drew significant attention.