A magnitude 7.1 earthquake jolted Kumamoto on Japan's southern island of Kyushu late Tuesday afternoon, prompting a temporary tsunami advisory for nearby coastal areas. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued the alert, which has since been lifted, for the Ariake and Yatsushiro Seas.

Magnitude 7.1 Earthquake Strikes Kyushu

The tremor, initially assessed as a 7.1 by the U.S. Geological Survey before being revised to 6.8, occurred approximately 560 miles southwest of Tokyo. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the earthquake was shallow and generating active seismic activity in the region, warning of potential aftershocks over the next two to three days.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, speaking via X, advised residents near the coast to remain vigilant as a tsunami of up to three feet had been predicted. Her government established a task force to gather information, evaluate damage, and prepare for potential rescue efforts.

Damage Assessment and Infrastructure Impact

Prime Minister Takaichi later informed reporters that initial reports indicated a number of injuries and damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. Blackouts and fires were also reported, though comprehensive details remain unclear. She urged caution regarding fire and broken glass for those in affected areas and emphasized prioritizing human life.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported no immediate damage to major public facilities and infrastructure, though local fire departments received numerous emergency calls as authorities continued their damage assessment. Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed no abnormalities were detected at three nearby nuclear power plants.

  • Shinkansen bullet trains and local trains in Kyushu were suspended for safety checks.
  • Aso Kumamoto Airport closed its runway with no immediate prospect of resuming operations.

The Japanese Defense Ministry dispatched aircraft to the affected area to conduct an aerial assessment of the situation.

This event recalls the deadly earthquake that struck Kumamoto in 2016, which resulted in over 50 fatalities, 1,800 injuries, and extensive damage to tens of thousands of homes.