Unprecedented Earthquake Swarm Rocks Japanese Island Chain

A series of islands in southwest Japan, characterized by a low population, has been struck by an unusually high number of earthquakes in the past two weeks. The region has experienced more tremors than it has residents. Over 800 tremors strong enough to be felt on land have been recorded.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported a 5.6-magnitude earthquake on Wednesday afternoon in the Tokara Islands. This chain of twelve islands is situated between Japan's main island and Okinawa. The Japan Meteorological Agency, using its own seismic intensity scale, has documented 870 earthquakes since June 21st.

All of the recorded earthquakes have registered at least 1.5 on the Japanese scale, indicating they were perceptible to some individuals. Earthquakes exceeding 5.0 on the scale have the potential to cause significant damage, such as toppling furniture.

The continuous seismic activity is considered unusual, even for Japan, a country known for its frequent earthquakes. The tremors have affected the more than 600 residents of the islands. The islands themselves are volcanic in origin, attracting visitors with their natural hot springs.