A magnitude 7.1 earthquake strikes Japan’s southern Kyushu region, with the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reporting it hit near Kumamoto prefecture. The Japanese government issues emergency earthquake warnings for Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Fukuoka, Saga, Oita and Miyazaki. JMA also issues tsunami warnings indicating a possible wave of about 1 metre for coastal areas, including an expected arrival around 5:00 pm local time, though some reports say the advisory is later lifted after no tsunami activity is observed.
The quake knocks out power to thousands of homes, and rail services are suspended, including Shinkansen operations, according to multiple outlets. Reports also mention aftershocks and disruptions to roads and bridges. Some outlets cite statements from officials that injuries and building damage, including collapsed structures and fires, are reported, while others focus on infrastructure and company checks.
Japanese authorities and nuclear-related regulators report no irregularities at nuclear power facilities in the area. The quake occurs in a country that sits along major tectonic boundaries and frequently experiences strong earthquakes.
