Japan PM Takaichi orders emergency response after 7.1 quake

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has instructed authorities to keep the public informed about evacuation measures following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture, according to Japanese media.

She also directed relevant ministries and government agencies to quickly assess the extent of the damage and work closely with local authorities to provide assistance to those affected.

Media reports indicate that several people may have been injured in Kumamoto Prefecture.

The powerful quake was followed by a series of aftershocks, the strongest measuring magnitude 6.8. A tsunami warning remains in effect.

No abnormalities have been detected at nuclear power plants in the region.

Kumamoto Airportchr("39")s runway has been closed, with four flights already canceled. High-speed and local train services across the Kyushu region have also been suspended following the earthquake.