Key Facts
• Over 300 earthquakes occurred in the Tokara Islands in 4 days.
• The Tokara Islands are located 250 km south of Kagoshima City and 400 km from Naha City.
• On June 24, three earthquakes, including a magnitude 4, were recorded.
• Akusekijima Island, with 89 residents, is experiencing frequent tremors.
• Akusekijima School conducts classes with helmets due to safety concerns.
• In December 2021, a magnitude 5+ earthquake led to 40% of residents evacuating.
• The term ‘Tokara Rule’ suggests distant earthquakes follow Tokara tremors, spreading on social media.
• Experts, including Professor Toshiyasu Nagao, refute the ‘Tokara Rule’ as scientifically unfounded.
• Nearby Suwanosejima Island continues volcanic activity, with ash reaching 2,300 meters on June 23.
• Experts predict the seismic activity may persist for 1-2 weeks but won’t affect distant regions.
Summary
The Tokara Islands, a group of 12 small islands south of Kagoshima City, have experienced over 300 earthquakes in just four days, raising concerns among residents. Akusekijima Island, home to 89 people, has been particularly affected, with students at the local school wearing helmets during classes. The ‘Tokara Rule,’ a social media theory linking Tokara tremors to distant earthquakes, has been dismissed by experts as lacking scientific basis. Volcanic activity on nearby Suwanosejima Island continues, but experts confirm no direct connection between these events and distant seismic or volcanic activity. The current seismic activity is expected to last up to two weeks.
