A strong earthquake struck inland on Kyushu island, Japan, trapping people inside a shopping centre, officials reported.
The quake hit at 16:27 local time on Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders for more than 150,000 people.
A brief tsunami warning was issued but lifted within the hour.
Japan Meteorological Agency warned of strong aftershocks following the shallow quake, which had an epicentre at a depth of 10 kilometres.
Government Response and Damage
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government was still assessing the situation and that several injuries had already been reported.
"We are still assessing the extent of injuries and property damage, but I have been informed that there have already been several injuries," Takaichi said.
Footage aired by NHK showed cracked roads and bridges, as well as several buildings on fire.
The meteorological agency reiterated warnings of strong aftershocks due to the shallow epicentre.
Japan experiences frequent earthquakes, with about 1,500 quakes occurring each year.
