Japan Registers Magnitude 7.1 Earthquake; Tsunami Advisory Issued and Later Lifted

A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto on Japan's southern island of Kyushu late Tuesday, causing injuries and damage. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory for the Ariake and Yatsushiro seas, which was lifted two hours later.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the formation of a government task force to gather information, assess potential damage, and prepare for rescue operations if needed. She later informed reporters that there were initial reports of various injuries and damage to roads, bridges, and buildings, alongside power outages and fires. Takaichi cautioned residents about fire hazards and broken glass.

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We are putting people's lives as the top priority.

The city of Yatsushiro's hospital reportedly received about 40 injured individuals. The Kumamoto Castle sustained damage to its stone walls, and a train derailed at Yatsushiro station. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency noted numerous emergency calls reporting fires and home damage, though major public facilities and infrastructure appeared intact initially.

Authorities are prioritizing people's lives and urging caution due to the possibility of strong aftershocks. The Japan Meteorological Agency highlighted that the shallow earthquake is triggering active seismic activity in the region, advising residents to be particularly careful over the next few days. No tsunami was observed inland as a result of the quake. Nuclear regulators reported no anomalies at nearby power plants, and while bullet trains and local rail services were suspended for safety checks, the Aso Kumamoto Airport runway was closed.

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The shallow earthquake is triggering active seismic activity in the zone, and we urge residents to exercise special caution during the next two to three days.