Tsunami Warning Issued for Southern Japan After Powerful Earthquakes
Back-to-Back Quakes Trigger Alarm, Prompt Evacuations
A tsunami warning has been issued for southern Japan after two powerful earthquakes struck the region on Thursday afternoon. The first, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake, hit at 1:41 pm JST, followed by a second, magnitude 7.1 earthquake, at 1:58 pm JST. The epicenters of both quakes were in the Miyazaki prefecture on the island of Kyushu.
Evacuations Ordered, Damage Assessed
The earthquakes have prompted evacuations in coastal areas of Miyazaki and neighboring prefectures. Authorities have urged residents to seek higher ground or move to designated evacuation centers. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, but there have been no immediate reports of severe injuries or fatalities.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued a tsunami warning for the southern coast of Kyushu, including the prefectures of Miyazaki, Kagoshima, and Kumamoto. The agency warns that waves of up to three meters (10 feet) are possible. Residents in coastal areas are advised to evacuate to higher ground immediately.
Aftershocks Continue, Seismic Activity Monitored
The earthquakes are part of a series of seismic events that have been shaking the Kyushu region in recent days. The JMA has recorded over 30 earthquakes of magnitude 3 or higher on the Japanese scale in the past 30 days. The agency continues to monitor the situation and issue warnings as necessary.
The devastation caused by an earthquake in central Japan is becoming clearer. The quake, which struck with a magnitude of 7.5, has left at least four people dead and dozens injured. Buildings have been damaged, roads blocked, and power lines cut off. Rescuers are working to reach those affected and assess the full extent of the damage.
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