Tsunami Alert Sounded in Japan Following Powerful 7.1-Magnitude Earthquake

A significant earthquake struck Japan on Tuesday, prompting the issuance of a tsunami warning. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake, which occurred in the southern part of the country, measured 7.1 in magnitude and reached the highest level of seven on Japan's Shindo scale of seismic intensity. The earthquake hit at 4:27 pm local time. The Japan Meteorological Agency further indicated that the resulting tsunami could potentially reach a height of up to 1 metre. Although there were no immediate reports of casualties, the impact of the earthquake on local infrastructure was substantial, with approximately 45,000 households in the Kumamoto region left without electricity, as reported by the local utility company, Kyushu Electric Power. It was also noted that three nuclear reactors in operation at the time of the earthquake continued to function normally. In the aftermath of the quake, a staffer from NHK, wearing a helmet, reported live from the newsroom, describing the ongoing shaking and the challenges it posed. 'Shaking is continuing as I speak. Including myself, there may be some people who feel their hearts racing,' the staffer said, adding, '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.' The situation underscores the seismic risks faced by Japan and the importance of its early warning systems.