7.1-magnitude earthquake strikes southern Japan, tsunami warning issued

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck southern Japan on [date], according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The quake's epicenter was located off the coast of Kyushu island, triggering immediate tsunami warnings for several prefectures.

The JMA issued a tsunami warning for coastal areas, predicting waves of up to one meter (3.28 feet). Residents in Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Fukuoka, Saga, Oita, and Miyazaki prefectures were urged to move to higher ground and follow official evacuation instructions. Broadcaster NHK reported that waves of that height may have already been recorded.

The Japanese government activated emergency response protocols, including emergency earthquake warnings for the affected regions. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have advised residents to stay alert for aftershocks and further updates.

According to Mehr News, the earthquake serves as a reminder of Japan's vulnerability to seismic activity, given its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire. No immediate reports of major damage or casualties have been confirmed, but assessments are ongoing.