7.1-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Southern Japan; Tsunami Alert Issued

A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan's Kyushu region today, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue an immediate tsunami advisory for coastal areas.

Initial reports indicate structural damage, including the collapse of sections of the historic Kumamoto Castle walls, though casualty assessments are currently ongoing across the affected prefectures.

Authorities have urged residents in low-lying coastal zones to evacuate to higher ground immediately as the risk of aftershocks and localized tsunami waves remains high.