An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck Kumamoto in Japan’s Kyushu region late Tuesday. The quake caused significant damage and injuries in the area. The Aeon Mall in Kashima Town suffered a collapse on its second floor, trapping individuals. Rescue efforts are underway according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
A report mentioned an explosion prior to the collapse at the mall, as per the Kyodo News Agency. A tsunami advisory was briefly issued for the Ariake and Yatsushiro Seas but was lifted within two hours, as stated by the Japan Meteorological Agency. The affected region is approximately 900 kilometers (540 miles) southwest of Tokyo.
The U.S. Geological Survey initially registered the earthquake at 7.1 magnitude but later adjusted it to 6.8. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi informed the public via X that a task force has been established to gather data, examine potential damage, and organize rescue operations as necessary.
Various reports indicate injuries, damage to roads, bridges, and buildings, as well as blackouts and fires. Prime Minister Takaichi advised caution while cooking and warned about broken glass hazards. Approximately 40 individuals with quake-related injuries were tended to at a hospital in Yatsushiro City.
The earthquake caused a train derailment at Yatsushiro Station and damage to stone walls at Kumamoto Castle. Yozo Kai, a Shinto priest, reported falling stone lanterns at a nearby shrine. Local official Hiroki Shimoda described witnessing roof tiles falling, recalling memories of a past quake in the area.
The Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported no significant damage to major infrastructure, though authorities are still assessing the damage extent. Local fire departments have received multiple reports of fires and damaged homes. Japan Meteorological Agency advised caution for possible aftershocks.
No abnormalities were found at nearby nuclear power plants. Train services, including Shinkansen bullet trains and local lines, have halted for inspections. Aso Kumamoto Airport closed its runway with no reopening timeline. The Defense Ministry dispatched aircraft to further assess the situation.
Kumamoto experienced a deadly earthquake in 2016, resulting in over 50 deaths and significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
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