Japan was hit by a 7.1-magnitude earthquake off the coast of Fukushima 11pm Japanese time, around 4pm in South Africa on Saturday [February 13]. The epicentre was recorded off the Japan’s southern coast at a depth of 60m, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
It is still unclear if any people were injured or killed, but residents in the area are being advised to move to higher ground even though no tsunami warning was issued.
The very same region of Japan was struck 10 years ago by a 9.1-magnitude earthquake and tsunami which severely damaged the Fukushima nuclear reactor and killed 15 899 people. While the 2011 earthquake was the largest recorded in Japanese history, the region falls within the pacific ‘ring of fire’ which is known for its volcanic and seismic activity.
Japanese residents in the affected area posted videos of the earthquake and tremors. Many start off with their early warning alarms and signals going off on their phones before the cameras begin shaking.
Woke up to shaking in Tokyo. Turned on TV to learn Magnitude 7.1 earthquake just hit off Fukushima prefecture — just 3 weeks ahead of the 10 year anniversary. Hope everyone is okay. pic.twitter.com/uT0LKJqqHd
— Kurumi Mori (@rumireports) February 13, 2021
13.2.2021 almost 10 years from 3.11.2011 Japan had earthquake magnitude 7.1 with epicenter in Fukushima. There is no worry of Tsunami. Look at the brave reporter still trying to shoot. Hope everyone is safe.
— #JusticeForSushantSinghRajput (@positivedrive) February 13, 2021
地震が大きかったので、なぜか反射的に動画撮ってしまったけどなんかワロタ pic.twitter.com/VOSl6PnGfj
— ひめい (@himei42) February 13, 2021
strong #earthquake in #Japan https://t.co/vBxM6fVgCe
— vince kun – ビンチェ君 (@tayokun) February 13, 2021
カメラマンのプロ根性すごいな。大きい地震がきたと気付いた瞬間カメラ取ってきて回してる #ntv pic.twitter.com/SAATAbP3hr
— さたけ❎ ??????_???? (@satake_take) February 13, 2021