Japan Hit by Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Ahead of Predicted July 5 Disaster

Japan experienced a 5.5-magnitude earthquake off the coast of Kagoshima just two days before the predicted date of a major natural disaster on July 5, 2025, as forecasted by manga artist Ryo Tatsuki, who is often compared to the prophet Baba Vanga. Tatsuki, known for her past accurate predictions including the 2011 Kobe earthquake and the coronavirus pandemic, published the prophecy in her book "The Future I Saw," which has caused widespread anxiety and a drop in tourism bookings. Despite the earthquake's timing and intensity, Japan's Meteorological Agency reported no tsunami warning and reassured the public, while local officials emphasized that rumors should not impact tourism. Social media reactions have been intense, with some people fearing a catastrophic tsunami up to three times worse than the 2011 disaster, though experts and Tatsuki herself have urged caution and advised not to overemphasize the predictions. The government and seismic experts view these forecasts as warnings to remain vigilant rather than causes for panic, highlighting the importance of preparedness. Overall, the event has reignited debate over the validity of prophetic warnings amid ongoing seismic activity in the region.