Earthquake of magnitude 4.5 strikes Kumamoto, Japan; no tsunami expected

A moderate earthquake, measuring magnitude 4.5, struck the Amakusa-Ashikita region of Kumamoto Prefecture in southern Japan early on August 2nd. The tremor occurred at approximately 1:07 AM local time, with its epicenter located at a depth of 10 kilometers.

The earthquake registered a seismic intensity of 4 on Japan's scale in Minamata City and Kamiamakusa City. Fortunately, authorities confirmed that there is no threat of a tsunami following this seismic event. This latest quake follows a series of tremors that have affected the region recently.

Just days prior, on July 31st, a more powerful magnitude 6.1 earthquake hit Kumamoto Prefecture, resulting in at least 36 deaths and over 3,400 damaged homes, according to prefectural announcements. The earlier quake also caused significant disruption, including a reported explosion at Aeon Mall Kumamoto, where seven people died and five were injured. Search operations at the mall have since concluded.