Magnitude 7.1 Earthquake Strikes Kyushu, Japan

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Kyushu, Japan injures several and prompts evacuations. Authorities respond as infrastructure suffers damage.

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake shook south-west Japan, resulting in multiple injuries and prompting a brief tsunami alert that was lifted within an hour. The quake struck at 16:27 JST (07:27 GMT) and left more than 150,000 residents instructed to seek shelter as it hit inland in Kyushu island.

The Japanese meteorological agency has cautioned against potential strong aftershocks due to the shallow depth of the epicenter, which is located just 10 kilometers below the surface. Early footage broadcasted by NHK shows significant damage, including cracked roads and bridges, while several buildings were reported to be on fire.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addressed the situation, stating, “We are still assessing the extent of injuries and property damage, but I have been informed that there have already been several injuries.” Reports indicate that around 10 of the injured were located in an elderly care home, with at least 50 requiring hospital treatment, as per NHK reports.

In the aftermath of the earthquake, train services have been suspended and thousands of households are facing power outages.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara confirmed that first responders, including Japan’s self-defence forces, fire services, and coast guard, have been deployed to the affected areas. “We urge residents in areas where the shaking was particularly severe to pay close attention to evacuation information issued by local authorities via radio, television and the internet, and to act calmly,” he warned.

This recent quake follows a notable event from December, when a 7.5 magnitude earthquake in north-east Japan left 30 individuals injured. Historical context reminds the nation of the devastating 2011 quake that triggered a tsunami resulting in approximately 18,000 fatalities.

Amid ongoing assessments, conflicting reports have emerged regarding a possible explosion at the Aeon Mall in Kumamoto post-quake, prompting further investigation.

Japan’s geographical location on the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it one of the world’s most earthquake-prone regions, averaging about 1,500 quakes per year. The situation remains critical as authorities continue to respond to the ongoing challenges presented by this latest disaster.