Japanese authorities have issued a tsunami alert following a powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck the southwestern part of the country on Tuesday.
The earthquake occurred at about 4:27 p.m. local time on Kyushu Island and was recorded at the highest level of seven on Japan’s Shindo seismic intensity scale, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Authorities warned that tsunami waves of up to one metre could reach affected coastal areas, while Japan’s public broadcaster, NHK, reported that waves of that height may already have been observed.
The earthquake also disrupted electricity supplies, with about 45,000 homes and facilities in the Kumamoto region reportedly losing power.
Kyushu Electric Power said three nuclear reactors that were operating in the area remained stable, while Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority reported no immediate abnormalities at nuclear facilities.
The intensity of the tremor was captured during a live NHK broadcast, as a reporter wearing a safety helmet described the continued shaking and warned residents to remain cautious.
The latest earthquake has revived memories of the devastating 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, when two major tremors measuring 6.5 and 7.3 struck the region within days of each other. The disaster left 273 people dead and injured more than 2,800 others.
Japan is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries.
The country experiences hundreds of seismic events annually, although most are relatively weak.
The authorities are expected to continue monitoring the situation for further tremors and possible tsunami activity, while residents in affected areas have been urged to remain alert and follow official safety instructions.
