Magnitude 6.8 earthquake hits south Japan

A magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck in the seas south of Okinawa on Monday morning prompting Japanese authorities to issue a warning for a tsunami of up to 1 meter (3 feet). It was lifted over an hour later.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the epicenter of the earthquake was at a shallow point near the Yonaguni islands.

The tsunami warning remained in force for over an hour after the quake struck, but authorities said it was unclear if a tsunami had hit shores of islands in the area.

Television footage of a nearby island showed calm seas, but residents were warned to stay away from the shore.

The public broadcaster NHK said there were no initial reports of damage.