International

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Tokyo, May 20: The powerful earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck Japan’s southern region of Kagoshima on Wednesday, shaking buildings and briefly triggering panic among residents. According to Japan’s Meteorological Agency (JMA), the quake occurred offshore near the Okinawa main island and the Amami region, at a depth of around 50 kilometers.

The tremors were strongly felt across parts of Kagoshima Prefecture, with reports indicating an intensity of upper 5 on Japan’s seismic scale, which is considered strong enough to cause unstable movement of furniture and potential structural shaking in buildings.

Despite the strength of the quake, no tsunami warning was issued, as authorities confirmed that the seismic activity did not pose any ocean-wave threat. The Japan Meteorological Agency also stated that there was no risk of tsunami generation from this earthquake.

Initial reports suggested that while residents experienced sudden shaking and temporary panic, there were no immediate reports of deaths, injuries, or significant structural damage. Emergency response teams and local authorities began assessments soon after the quake to check for aftershocks and potential impacts on infrastructure.

Officials continue to monitor the region closely, as Japan remains one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire.