Hope dwindles for rescue in southwestern Japan quake as death toll climbs to 23

Time was running out to find survivors, as rescuers continued to work in the Kumamoto area on Japan 's southern main island of Kyushu, where the magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit Tuesday.

Severe weather brings the risk of damaging wind, hail, lightning, and brief power loss. Outdoor activity should be paused until the storm passes.

This report is based on information from NPR Top News, monitored by Alert USA's verified emergency feed.

The greatest local impacts are an elevated risk to property and a high chance of power outages, with moderate travel disruptions expected as conditions move through the area.

Recommended steps: stay informed via official sources; avoid non-essential travel in the area; secure outdoor items if weather is involved; check on family and neighbors.

Alert USA is tracking this severe weather event and will update this report as verified information becomes available.

Verified by Alert USA • NPR TOP NEWS