Japan: Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs off Okinawa Island at around 11:22 May 1

Event

A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurred in the Philippine Sea off Okinawa Island at around 11:22 May 1. The epicenter was about 96 km (59 miles) east-southeast of Naha. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 6 km (4 miles), and weak shaking was probably felt throughout Okinawa Island and parts of Oshima District in southern Kagoshima Prefecture. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are possible over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Advice

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.