Japan issued a tsunami warning on Tuesday after a powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the southern part of the country, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The quake, measured at the highest level of seven on Japan's Shindo scale of shaking, hit at 4:27 pm local time, triggering a tsunami that could reach up to one metre in height.
Impact and Immediate Response
While no casualties were reported immediately, the earthquake caused significant disruption. Local utility Kyushu Electric Power confirmed that approximately 45,000 households and facilities lost power in the Kumamoto region. The firm added that three nuclear reactors operating in the area at the time continued normal operations without incident.
An NHK staffer, reporting live on air while wearing a helmet, described the ongoing shaking. “Shaking is continuing as I speak. Including myself, there may be some people who feel their hearts racing,” he said. “When the quake struck, the shaking was so big that I could not stand up. Please be aware of the possibility that shaking might continue after this.”
Tsunami Warning and Public Advisory
The JMA urged residents in coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground and remain alert for aftershocks. The agency warned that the tsunami could strike repeatedly and may intensify. No damage or injuries had been confirmed by early reports, but officials cautioned that the situation could evolve.
The earthquake's intensity was described as violent, with the NHK newsroom shaking so violently that it was difficult to remain standing. The event underscores Japan's vulnerability to seismic activity, though the country's robust early warning systems and preparedness measures were activated promptly.
