A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale jolted Japan's southern coast early Thursday morning, triggering tsunami warnings for coastal areas. The epicenter was located off the island of Kyushu, approximately 280 kilometers (174 miles) southeast of Nagasaki.
The earthquake struck at 01:08 am local time (16:08 GMT on Wednesday), sending shockwaves that were felt across southern Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued immediate tsunami warnings for the coastal areas of Nagasaki, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki prefectures. Residents were urged to evacuate to higher ground.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake's magnitude at 7.1, with a depth of approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles). The shallow depth and proximity to populated areas raised concerns about potential damage and casualties.
Magnitude 7.1 Earthquake Shakes Southern Japan, Sparking Tsunami Warnings
As the tsunami warnings were issued, coastal communities evacuated to designated shelters or moved to higher elevations. The JMA warned that waves of up to 1 meter (3 feet) were possible within 30 minutes of the earthquake.
Authorities deployed emergency response teams and dispatched vessels to assess the situation and provide assistance. Residents were advised to stay away from coastal areas and to follow official instructions.
The earthquake caused power outages in some areas, affecting over 30,000 households in Nagasaki Prefecture. Communications were also disrupted, making it difficult for authorities to collect information from affected regions.
As the initial shock subsided, authorities began to assess the extent of the damage. Buildings were inspected for structural integrity, and roads were checked for cracks or debris. No reports of major damage or injuries were immediately available.
The tsunami warnings were lifted several hours later, as the threat subsided. However, authorities continued to urge residents to stay vigilant and to follow any further instructions issued by the JMA.
Japan is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent seismic activity. The country has a history of devastating earthquakes, including the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, which caused widespread damage and loss of life.
The 7.1 earthquake is a reminder of the seismic risks that Japan faces. Authorities and residents alike are constantly preparing for and mitigating the potential impacts of earthquakes and tsunamis.
As of this writing, there are no reports of major casualties or significant damage from the 7.1 earthquake. However, authorities continue to assess the situation and provide assistance to affected areas.
