Japanese PM urges residents to seek safety after 7.1 Kumamoto quake

Powerful Quake Hits Kumamoto

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged residents to evacuate and protect themselves after a powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on Tuesday, with reports of injuries, fires, power cuts and damage to roads, bridges and buildings.

“While we are still confirming the extent of casualties and property damage, we have received reports of injuries, power outages, fires, and damage to roads, bridges, and buildings. Above all, please take action to protect yourselves, such as evacuating to a safe location,” Takaichi said during a press conference in Tokyo.

A tsunami advisory was in force for the Ariake and Yatsushiro seas during the briefing, warning of possible waves of around one metre.

Residents Told To Evacuate

“First and foremost, please stay away from the coast,” Takaichi added.

She said ministries had been ordered to assess the damage, work closely with local authorities and prioritise rescue and life-saving operations. A Cabinet Office assessment team had also been sent to the affected area.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said the government had established a response office at the Prime Minister’s Office Crisis Management Centre immediately after the earthquake and convened senior officials from relevant ministries.

Government Begins Emergency Response

“Acting on the Prime Minister’s instructions and prioritising human life, we are devoting our full resources to assessing the damage and implementing emergency disaster response measures, including search and rescue operations,” he said, adding, “Regarding nuclear facilities, including the Sendai Nuclear Power Plant, we have received no reports of abnormalities at this time.” He warned residents to remain alert for further powerful earthquakes and follow evacuation information from local authorities.

Prime Minister’s Office of Japan, via Viory.Video