Geologists don't have a crystal ball that can foresee future earthquakes, but seismic specialists in the Japanese government believe that the odds of a big one are creeping upwards. According to Japan's Earthquake Research Committee,

A strong earthquake struck southwestern Japan, the U.S. Geological Survey said, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami advisory.

Japan’s Meteorological Agency withdrew a tsunami advisory after a 6.9 magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of southwest Japan.

TOKYO -- A tsunami advisory was issued for part of southwest Japan after a magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck Monday, but the warnings to stay away from coastal areas were later lifted. A few instances of minor damage were reported. Japan’s Meteorological Agency initially estimated the magnitude was 6.9 but later revised it to 6.6.

A strong, 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of southern Japan on Monday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The temblor happened at 9:19 p.m. Japan time about 7 miles southeast of Miyazaki, Japan, data from the agency shows.

On January 13, 2025, in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, security video captured intense shaking caused by a 6.9 magnitude earthquake. The quake prompted people to rush out to a parking lot, ducking and covering their heads for safety.