Kumamoto Earthquake Records Maximum Intensity 7

At approximately 4:27 p.m. today, an earthquake centered in the Kumamoto region of Kumamoto Prefecture occurred, producing strong shaking with a maximum seismic intensity of 7 in Uki City and Hikawa Town. A tsunami advisory was issued but lifted at 6:10 p.m.

Collapsed houses, fires, and power outages occurred mainly in Kumamoto Prefecture, and numerous emergency calls to 110 and 119 have been received. Human casualties are still being confirmed, and no abnormalities have been reported at nuclear facilities, including the Sendai Nuclear Power Plant, as of now.

Residents in areas affected by strong shaking should check evacuation information from local authorities via radio, television, and the internet; ensure their safety during fires and power outages; remain alert for heatstroke caused by hot weather; and act calmly.

Information of uncertain authenticity could affect evacuation behavior and disaster response, so earthquake and disaster-prevention information should be accurately obtained from the Japanese government, local governments, and news organizations.

As of 5:45 p.m., 3 expressway routes and 23 sections were closed. The Kyushu Shinkansen suspended service between Hakata Station and Kagoshima-Chuo Station, while conventional railways suspended service on 17 lines operated by 9 companies. Kumamoto Airport was reported to have its runway closed for inspections.

The National Police Agency, Fire and Disaster Management Agency, Japan Self-Defense Forces, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and Japan Coast Guard helicopters are checking conditions in affected areas, and search and rescue operations will begin promptly if damage is confirmed. A Cabinet Office investigation team was also dispatched to the Kumamoto Prefectural Government Office, where emergency measures are being advanced in coordination with local authorities, with lifesaving and rescue operations given top priority.