Tsunami warnings have been issued in Japan following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake on Thursday (August 8).
The UK Foreign Office updated its advice for Japan this morning (August 8), saying the earthquake has hit southwestern Japan, in and around Miyazaki Prefecture.
The prefectures where tsunami warnings or advisories have been issued are Miyazaki, Kochi, Oita, Kagoshima and Ehime.
The FCDO said: “If you are in the affected areas, stay away from seashores and riverbanks, and follow the instructions from the local authorities and check the latest information on NHK World News.”
In an update at 2.25pm, the advice said: “Following the earthquake, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued a Nankai Trough megaquake alert – meaning that there is a heightened risk of a large-scale earthquake which could affect large parts of Japan.
“People in Japan are advised to take precautionary measures for a heightened risk of a further earthquake per the Japan National Tourism Organisation advice and follow any further advice from local and national authorities.”
NHK World News reported: “The Japanese Meteorological Agency has issued a megaquake advisory after Thursday’s quake.
“The height of the tsunami is expected to be one metre.
“People in areas where the tsunami advisory has been issued are advised to stay away from seashores and riverbanks.
“Tsunami waves can surge many times and suddenly rise. They can strike with strong force.
“People are advised to avoid seashores and do not attempt to observe the situation.”
The article said there is “human and property damage” but “no reports of abnormalities at nuclear facilities, including the Sendai Nuclear Power Plant”.
It added: “According to Japan’s transport ministry, departures and arrivals from Miyazaki Airport are currently suspended due to the strong earthquake that hit the region.”