Japan Hit by 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake, Tsunami Warnings Issued

Japan was struck by a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake off the southern coast, prompting immediate tsunami warnings for the regions of Kyushu and Shikoku.

The earthquake's epicenter was located just a dozen miles off the coast of Miyazaki, a city on the island of Kyushu. Authorities issued tsunami advisories, fearing sea levels could rise by up to one meter in some coastal areas. Despite the severity of the quake, initial reports indicate minor damage and relatively small tsunami waves.

Japan, located on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' is accustomed to seismic activity, but the risk of tsunamis following offshore earthquakes remains a significant concern.