Powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake strikes southern Japan, triggering tsunami advisory

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck southern Japan's Kumamoto prefecture on Thursday, triggering a tsunami advisory and prompting widespread emergency evacuations. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the epicenter occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers in the Kyushu region.

The quake caused significant structural damage, including collapsed buildings and a reported explosion in a commercial center. Local authorities urged residents along the coast to move to higher ground immediately. Approximately 300,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate as rescue teams assess casualties and damage.

Meanwhile, firefighters in southern Europe continue battling historic wildfires across France and Spain, where over 300,000 people have been displaced by uncontrollable blazes.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero