theguardian.com
Multiple people trapped inside shopping centre in Japan after earthquake – live updates
An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.1 struck the country’s Kumamoto prefecture
Japan’s prime minister, Takaichi Sanae, has confirmed that a tsunami advisory was issue for Ariake Bay and Yatsushiro Sea after the earthquake hit the Kumamoto prefecture.
She wrote on social media:
At around 4:27 p.m. today, an earthquake with its epicenter in the Kumamoto region of Kumamoto Prefecture occurred, and strong shaking with a maximum seismic intensity of 7 was observed in Uki City and Makigawa Town in Kumamoto Prefecture.
In connection with this earthquake, a tsunami advisory has been issued for Ariake Bay and Yatsushiro Sea, and tsunamis of about 1 meter are expected. Please refrain from approaching the coast.
From me, to the relevant ministries and agencies - Urgently grasp the damage situation - Closely coordinate with local governments, and under the policy of prioritizing human life, the entire government will fully engage in emergency disaster response measures such as lifesaving and rescue for the affected people - Timely and accurate provision of information to the public regarding tsunamis and damage, etc. I have instructed these three points.
To those in the areas where the shaking was strong, I would like to ask you to continue to be vigilant against the occurrence of earthquakes of the same magnitude. Continue reading...
