Japan: Magnitude-5.6 offshore earthquake occurs northeast of Kikajima in the Amami Islands March 15

A magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurred in the western Pacific Ocean off the northeast coast of Kikajima in the Amami Islands at around 19:32 March 15. The epicenter was about 52 km (33 miles) east of Tatsugo, Amami Oshima. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt on Kikajima, as well as light shaking throughout parts of the central Ryukyu Islands. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and 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.