KUMAMOTO, Japan — Soldiers and emergency personnel are actively searching through damaged infrastructure after a significant earthquake struck southwestern Japan. The tremor, measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale, occurred in the Kumamoto area on Kyushu island.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized the urgency of these rescue operations. “There are people who are still waiting to be rescued, and it’s a race against time,” she stated. The government is dedicated to locating and saving as many individuals as possible.
The aftermath of the earthquake has led to serious disruptions. Services of the Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train are suspended, while some airport operations are affected as damage assessments continue.
The earthquake resulted in the loss of 13 lives with several people still unaccounted for. The ongoing search includes efforts at the Aeon Mall in Kashima town, which suffered catastrophic damage. An explosion, believed to have stemmed from a gas leak, caused the mall’s second floor to collapse, trapping several individuals.
Additionally, a collapsed chimney at Nippon Paper Industries Co.’s Yatsushiro facility trapped several persons. So far, two people have been rescued and two bodies recovered, but the search for those still trapped continues.
Chief government spokesman Minoru Kihara reported large-scale outages. Approximately 36,900 homes lack electricity, and 9,500 lack gas service. In affected areas, communication networks are disrupted.
The earthquake displaced thousands, forcing over 9,000 residents to seek refuge in more than 500 shelters. To combat the region’s ongoing heat wave, authorities are providing air conditioning at these shelters.
Kihara also mentioned the provision of essential supplies, as heavy temperatures threaten health and safety. Aso Kumamoto Airport is partially operational; however, some flight cancellations are expected.
The quake damaged historical landmarks, such as the Kumamoto Castle. This destination, already undergoing repairs from a previous earthquake in 2016, suffered further damage. “The shaking reminded me of the Kumamoto quake (10 years ago) and I was frightened,” said Hiroki Shimoda, an official at Mifune town hall, describing how roof tiles were dislodged from homes.
Japan’s Self Defense Forces remain engaged in rescue operations, working closely with emergency teams to mitigate the disaster’s effects.
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