Magnitude 7.1 quake in Japan leaves several injured
The quake struck Kumamoto prefecture in the south-west and briefly triggered a tsunami alert.
A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck inland in Kumamoto City, located in southwest Japan, resulting in multiple injuries and triggering a short-lived tsunami advisory that was rescinded within an hour.
Over 150,000 individuals have been directed to evacuation shelters following the tremor, which occurred on Kyushu island at 16:27 local time (07:27 GMT). The meteorological agency has cautioned about the likelihood of strong aftershocks due to the shallow epicenter, situated at a depth of 10km. National broadcaster NHK has already aired footage depicting fractured roads and bridges, as well as several structures engulfed in flames.
Japan, positioned on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is among the nations most susceptible to earthquakes, experiencing approximately 1,500 tremors annually.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated on Tuesday, "We are still evaluating the scope of injuries and property damage, but I have been informed that there have already been several injuries." According to Japanese broadcaster NHK, roughly 10 of those injured were residents of an elderly care facility, and at least 50 people are currently receiving hospital treatment.
Train services have been halted, and thousands of homes are without electricity. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara confirmed that first responders, including Japan's self-defense force, fire services, and coast guard, have been deployed. He urged, "We urge residents in areas where the shaking was particularly severe to pay close attention to evacuation information issued by local authorities via radio, television and the internet, and to act calmly."
Last December, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake in northeast Japan caused 30 injuries. In March 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck the country's east, unleashing a massive tsunami that claimed 18,000 lives.
Additional reporting by Chie Kobayashi in Tokyo.