06 Aug 2023 | 06:51 PM UTC
Japan: Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs southeast of Kyushu at around 03:12 Aug. 7
Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs southeast of Kyushu, Japan, at around 03:12 Aug. 7. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurred southeast of Kyushu at around 03:12 Aug. 7. The epicenter was about 37 km (23 miles) east of Nishinoomote, Japan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 13 km (8 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of Kyushu and the northern Ryukyu Islands. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible where shaking occurred.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
