A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Kyushu, Japan's southern island, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue a tsunami warning for waves of up to one meter.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said initial reports indicate damage to buildings, several injuries, and fires in some areas. Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage.
Emergency response teams have been placed on high alert, while residents in coastal areas have been advised to remain cautious and follow evacuation instructions issued by local authorities.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake registered a high intensity on the country's Shindo seismic scale, and officials are closely monitoring the risk of aftershocks and any potential tsunami activity.
