Minor Tsunami Hits Remote Japanese Islands

Small tsunami waves struck remote islands in Japan on Tuesday, following an earthquake potentially linked to volcanic activity. The offshore quake was not perceptible on land and caused no reported damage or injuries. Authorities initially cautioned that waves up to three feet were possible on the Izu and Ogasawara islands, before lifting the advisory three hours later.

The Japan Meteorological Agency detected a 20-inch tsunami wave in the Yaene district of Hachijo Island, about 30 minutes after the 5.8 magnitude quake. The US Geological Survey recorded the quake at 5.6. Smaller waves also reached Kozushima, Miyakejima, and Izu Oshima. The quake's epicenter was approximately 110 miles south of Hachijo Island and 185 miles south of Tokyo. Local television showed minor splashing against a Hachijo wharf, with residents remaining largely unaffected.

Ryuji Minemoto, a Hachijo resident, noted he observed no significant water disturbances. Fumihiko Imamura, a seismologist from Tohoku University, suggested the tsunami may stem from undersea volcanic activity causing seabed shifts without typical tremors. Japan, situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," frequently experiences earthquakes and tsunamis. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)