Over 300 earthquakes rattle Tokara Islands in four days

A series of more than 327 earthquakes have struck the waters near the Tokara Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, since late Saturday night through Tuesday, with the strongest tremor reaching a seismic intensity of 4. 

Due to the unusually high seismic activity, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has urged residents and visitors to stay alert for potential strong shaking.  

Strongest quake reaches Intensity 4

The most notable quake occurred at 2.23am on Tuesday, registering a magnitude strong enough to be felt as intensity 4 on the Japanese scale on Akusekijima, while Kodakarajima recorded intensity 2. 

Since June 21, the region has experienced frequent tremors, with the Fukuoka District Meteorological Observatory reporting four quakes of intensity 4, 18 of intensity 3, and 74 of intensity 2—totaling at least 295 quakes with a seismic intensity of 1 or higher.  

So far, none of the earthquakes have triggered a tsunami. However, the JMA has warned that strong tremors could still occur and advised residents to remain cautious.  

No damage reported, but residents on edge

The Tokara Islands, located southwest of Kyushu, consist of 12 islands, seven of which are inhabited. While no injuries or significant damage have been reported, the relentless shaking has left residents anxious. 

Some locals say the constant tremors—especially those striking at night—have made it difficult to sleep, causing considerable stress.  

A researcher at Kagoshima University, noted that the cause of the quakes remains unclear based on current data. He mentioned that it is difficult to predict when this seismic activity will end, but historically, such active periods typically last from a few days to a week.