Many earthquakes shake Tokara Islands, with 12 Mag 4.5+

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In summary, a small swarm or cluster of M4+, M5+ earthquakes have been occurring north of Amami Ōshima, Japan, close to Toshima, with the strongest being a 5.1 magnitude quake located 106 km north of Naze. This could potentially be a prelude to an undersea eruption, although it is also possible that it is related to the current activity of Suwanose-jima or Akuseki-jima. There is also speculation that this could be a new volcanic island in the making.
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Astronuc
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M 5.1 - 106 km N of Naze, Japan
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000e0zk/executive
  • 2021-04-12 14:01:47 (UTC)
  • 29.326°N 129.480°E
  • 10.0 km depth
A small swarm or cluster of M4+, M5+ earthquakes north of Amami Ōshima, Japan, and seemingly close to Toshima,
5.1 Mag 106 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-12 07:01:47 (UTC-07:00) 10.0 km
4.7 Mag 107 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-11 05:14:21 (UTC-07:00) 59.0 km
4.8 Mag 108 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-11 05:00:26 (UTC-07:00) 30.8 km
4.5 Mag 115 km WSW of Kurio, Japan
2021-04-11 03:01:24 (UTC-07:00) 61.7 km
4.7 Mag 87 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-10 16:00:21 (UTC-07:00) 10.0 km
4.8 Mag 116 km WSW of Kurio, Japan
2021-04-10 13:40:44 (UTC-07:00) 25.7 km
4.8 Mag Ryukyu Islands, Japan
2021-04-10 13:20:38 (UTC-07:00) 10.0 km
4.7 Mag 102 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-10 11:18:14 (UTC-07:00) 10.0 km
4.9 Mag 118 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-10 06:10:42 (UTC-07:00) 33.9 km
5.2 Mag 99 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-10 00:36:28 (UTC-07:00) 35.0 km
5.1 Mag 94 km NNE of Naze, Japan
2021-04-09 23:52:12 (UTC-07:00) 35.0 km
5.3 Mag 102 km N of Naze, Japan
2021-04-09 15:07:30 (UTC-07:00) 12.6 km

There are many more < Mag 4.
Hundreds of earthquakes shake Tokara Islands
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20210412_08/
 
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Astronuc said:
A small swarm or cluster of M4+, M5+ earthquakes north of Amami Ōshima, Japan, and seemingly close to Toshima,

maybe a prelude to an undersea eruption ?

that would be cool :wink:
 
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What causes earthquakes in the Tokara Islands?

Earthquakes in the Tokara Islands are caused by the movement of tectonic plates along the Ryukyu Trench, a subduction zone where the Philippine Sea Plate is being pushed beneath the Eurasian Plate.

Why do earthquakes in the Tokara Islands have a magnitude of 4.5 or higher?

The magnitude of an earthquake is determined by the amount of energy released during the seismic event. The Tokara Islands are located in an area of high seismic activity, making it more likely for earthquakes to have a magnitude of 4.5 or higher.

Is it common for the Tokara Islands to experience multiple earthquakes in a short period of time?

Yes, it is common for the Tokara Islands to experience multiple earthquakes in a short period of time. This is due to the complex tectonic activity in the region, which can result in frequent, smaller earthquakes as well as occasional larger ones.

How do scientists monitor and track earthquakes in the Tokara Islands?

Scientists use a variety of tools and technologies to monitor and track earthquakes in the Tokara Islands. These include seismometers, GPS devices, and satellite imagery, which allow them to measure and analyze seismic activity in real time.

Are earthquakes in the Tokara Islands a cause for concern?

While earthquakes in the Tokara Islands can be alarming, they are a normal part of the region's geological activity. However, it is important for scientists and local authorities to continue monitoring and studying these earthquakes in order to better understand and prepare for potential future events.

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