On Thursday, August 8, 2024, southern Japan experienced significant seismic activity, with a 6.9-magnitude earthquake followed by a 7.1-magnitude tremor. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the initial quake struck at 4:42 p.m. local time (7:42 a.m. GMT) at a depth of 33 kilometers, approximately 29 kilometers southeast of Miyazaki on Kyushu Island. Less than a minute later, a second quake hit at a depth of 26 kilometers, 20 kilometers northeast of Miyazaki.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued warnings for tsunamis of up to one meter, affecting coastal areas in Kyushu and Shikoku islands. NHK reported that tsunamis had already arrived or were expected to arrive in some regions. Residents were advised to stay away from the sea and coastal areas until the tsunami warning was lifted.
As of now, there have been no immediate reports of damage from the quakes. The Japanese government has set up a special task force to respond to the situation and monitor the impact of the tremors. The USGS’s rapid reporting underscores the seismic activity’s intensity and potential threat.
Japan’s geographic location along the western edge of the Pacific “Ring of Fire” makes it highly susceptible to earthquakes. The archipelago, home to approximately 125 million people, experiences around 1,500 seismic events annually, accounting for about 18% of the world’s earthquakes. Despite this, Japan has stringent construction standards and disaster preparedness protocols that mitigate damage and loss.
The country’s resilience in the face of seismic activity is evidenced by its response to previous major earthquakes. For instance, the devastating 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami in March 2011 led to the Fukushima nuclear disaster, causing significant loss of life and long-term environmental damage. More recently, a 7.4-magnitude quake in March 2022 caused three deaths and shook large areas of eastern Japan.
In contrast to these historic events, the quakes of August 8, 2024, while substantial, have so far resulted in no reported fatalities or major damage. However, Japan’s preparedness and the public’s adherence to safety protocols continue to play crucial roles in managing the impact of such natural disasters.
The memory of the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, which devastated Tokyo and its surrounding areas, remains a stark reminder of Japan’s vulnerability to seismic events. As the country continues to experience frequent tremors, ongoing efforts in earthquake preparedness and infrastructure resilience remain vital to safeguarding lives and minimizing damage.
In other news – Nongelo Chiume’s emotional tribute to his mother – ‘Mama, You’ll Always Be My Love’”
Following the passing of beloved South African actress Connie Chiume on August 6, her son Nongelo has publicly expressed his grief and gratitude. On Thursday, Nongelo took to Instagram to honor his mother with a poignant tribute. He shared a photo of Connie with a heartfelt message: “Mama, you’ll always be my love. Thank you and farewell, you’ll forever be missed.
An icon and gentle giant who touched many lives in South Africa and abroad. We shall continue your beautiful and powerful legacy.” The tribute reflects Nongelo’s deep admiration and love for his mother, celebrating her significant impact both in South Africa and internationally. Read More
