A powerful earthquake struck Japan’s south-western main island of Kyushu on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in injuries and infrastructure damage. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported the quake, which briefly triggered a tsunami advisory that was rescinded within two hours. Despite the advisory, no tsunami was observed following the inland earthquake.

The seismic event was classified as a magnitude 7.1, according to initial assessments by the US Geological Survey, later revised to 6.8. It shook the city of Kumamoto, located approximately 900 kilometres south-west of Tokyo. The tsunami advisory affected coastal areas near the Ariake and Yatsushiro Seas, specifically impacting the prefectures of Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Fukuoka, and Saga.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the establishment of a government task force responsible for gathering information. This team will assess potential damage and prepare for any required rescue operations.

Infrastructure Impact and Emergency Services Response

Various transport services faced disruptions due to the earthquake. Shinkansen bullet trains and local train services in Kyushu were suspended while safety checks were conducted. Aso Kumamoto Airport also closed its runway, indicating no immediate prospects for resuming operations.

Reports indicated a number of injuries alongside damage to roads, bridges, and structures, in addition to blackouts and fires. Takaichi advised the public to exercise caution, particularly in kitchens, regarding fire hazards and broken glass.

Local media outlet Kyodo News reported that approximately 40 individuals with injuries were treated at a hospital in Yatsushiro city. Further reports indicated a train derailment at Yatsushiro station, while damage to the stone walls of Kumamoto Castle was also noted.

Authorities Continue Damage Assessment and Public Safety Measures

No major damage was reported to public infrastructure, according to Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency. Nevertheless, local fire departments received numerous emergency calls related to fires and structural damage. Takaichi stressed the importance of prioritising public safety and encouraged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant due to the possibility of aftershocks.

Shinji Kiyomoto, an officer from the weather agency’s earthquake and tsunami countermeasures department, recommended that residents exercise caution in the coming two to three days. The Nuclear Regulation Authority of Japan assured the public that no irregularities were detected at three nearby nuclear power plants.

The Defence Ministry reported the deployment of aircraft to the affected region to facilitate situation assessments. This strong earthquake has prompted a thorough response from official agencies as they work to evaluate the extent of injuries and damage across Kyushu. Japan remembers a tragic earthquake in 2016 that resulted in over 50 fatalities, 1,800 injuries, and significant destruction of homes.

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