Japan Issues Tsunami Warning Following 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck Japan’s southwestern Kyushu Island on Tuesday, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami warning. The agency warned that tsunami waves up to one meter high could occur and urged residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant until 5:00 PM.

Japan, one of the world’s most seismically active countries, has faced an increased risk of large earthquakes in recent days, recalling memories of the devastating 2011 quake. The tremors on Kyushu Island were measured using Japan’s own “Shindo Scale,” according to the Meteorological Agency. The tsunami waves are expected to reach up to one meter and possibly arrive by 5:00 PM.

Japanese media outlet NHK reported that wave heights may have already reached the forecasted levels. Earlier, on June 25, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck northern Japan, but no casualties or significant damage were reported.

Situated along the western edge of the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire,” Japan rests atop four major tectonic plates, making it one of the most earthquake-prone countries globally. With a population of approximately 125 million, the island nation experiences hundreds of seismic shocks annually, accounting for roughly 18 percent of all earthquakes worldwide.