Japan earthquake: 7.1 magnitude quake strikes Kumamoto, tsunami advisory issued

A strong 7.1 magnitude earthquake rocked southern Japan on Tuesday, with the Japan Meteorological Agency issuing a tsunami advisory. Pic/ AFP

An earthquake of preliminary magnitude 7.1 struck Kumamoto on Japan's southern main island of Kyushu late Tuesday afternoon, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue a tsunami advisory.

According to the JMA, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km (6 miles) below the sea surface.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage following the 4:29 pm quake.

The epicentre was located in the western region of Kumamoto, about 900 km (540 miles) southwest of Tokyo.

The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said there was no tsunami threat beyond local coastlines.

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