Tsunami Advisory Issued Following Significant Earthquake in Southwestern Japan

A powerful earthquake registering a magnitude of 6.9 struck southwestern Japan at 9:19 p.m. on Sunday. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the quake, while significant, was measured at a lower intensity of 5 on Japan's seismic scale. The epicenter was located approximately 30 kilometers deep in the Hyuganada Sea.

In response to the earthquake, the JMA promptly issued a tsunami advisory for the coastal areas of Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures. Forecasts predict that the tsunami could generate waves measuring up to 1 meter in height. Residents and visitors in the affected regions have been advised to steer clear of coastal areas and to seek higher ground as a precautionary measure.

The JMA is currently assessing whether this earthquake may be associated with a potential megaquake along the Nankai Trough, which could occur in the future. An expert panel is slated to convene at 10:30 p.m. to evaluate the situation and determine if additional warnings are warranted.

Previously, the JMA had issued alerts regarding a potential megaquake in the Nankai Trough after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake was detected off the coast of Kyushu in August of the previous year. These alerts remained in effect for a week following that incident.

In terms of nuclear safety, both Kyushu Electric Power and Shikoku Electric Power reported no irregularities at their respective facilities. The Sendai and Genkai Nuclear Power Plants operated by Kyushu Electric, as well as the Ikata Nuclear Power Plant managed by Shikoku Electric, confirmed that they are functioning normally and that no abnormalities have been detected.

For more detailed information regarding the recent earthquake, individuals can refer to the Japan Meteorological Agency's website, which provides comprehensive data on seismic activity, including the specific location of the earthquake. Additionally, the JMA offers resources that explain Japan's earthquake intensity scale (shindo) and guidelines on safety measures to take before, during, and after an earthquake.