Japan: A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs southwest of the Sakishima Islands at around 22:56 Feb. 20

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the Philippine Sea to the southwest of Japan's Sakishima Islands at 22:56 JST Feb. 20. The epicenter was about 83 km (52 miles) south-southeast of Yonaguni Island. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 21 km (13 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout the Sakishima Islands and parts of eastern Taiwan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely 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.