**Intensity Level 6 First Observed, Aftershocks Continue—Decrease in Hong Kong Tourists Due to Megaquake Rumors**
Since the 21st of last month, over 1,000 small-scale earthquakes have occurred in the Tokara Islands of Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, according to reports from Nikkei and NHK.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported a magnitude 5.5 earthquake in the Tokara Islands at 4:13 PM, with a focal depth of 20 kilometers and no tsunami warning issued.
On Akusekijima, the seismic intensity level reached a lower 6, which is significant enough to make it difficult to stand and may cause wall tiles and window glass to break. This is the first time an intensity level of lower 6 has been observed in the Tokara Islands.
The previous day, an earthquake with a maximum magnitude of 5.6 resulted in an intensity level of lower 5. NHK interrupted regular broadcasting to provide immediate news updates following the earthquake.
The Meteorological Agency has stated that it is unclear when the earthquakes will end, advising continued caution due to the potential for strong earthquakes. Experts analyzed that the frequency of earthquakes is likely due to multiple fault lines, with up to three faults estimated to be involved this time.
As earthquake swarms in the Tokara Islands fuel megaquake rumors in Japan, the number of tourists from Hong Kong and other regions visiting Japan has decreased. In May, visits from Hong Kong dropped by 11.2% compared to the same month last year. Greater Bay Airlines will suspend some Japan routes starting September 1 due to the impact of megaquake rumors.
The Meteorological Agency commented that there is likely no connection between the Nankai Trough Megaquake and the Tokara Islands earthquakes.
(Photo: Screenshot from the Japan Meteorological Agency website)