Powerful Earthquake Strikes Kyushu, Disrupting Kumamoto Region
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan’s southwestern island of Kyushu on Tuesday, causing extensive damage, evacuations and transportation disruptions across the Kumamoto region.
The quake’s epicenter was near Uto, south of Kumamoto, at a depth of slightly more than six miles. Shallow earthquakes can produce stronger shaking near their epicenters because seismic waves travel a shorter distance before reaching the surface.
The second floor of Aeon Mall in Kumamoto collapsed, leaving an unknown number of people trapped. Authorities said several people were rescued, while as many as 30 employees remained missing. Reports indicated that multiple people may have died, although officials had not provided a confirmed death toll. Local media also reported a possible explosion or gas leak before the collapse.
Search-and-rescue teams began working at the mall soon after the disaster. Nearly 100 injured people were taken to hospitals, including at least 40 in Yatsushiro and about 50 in Kumamoto.
Tsunami advisories were issued for the Ariake and Yatsushiro seas but were lifted several hours later. Officials also warned of landslides and further aftershocks. A landslide was reported on Mount Mayu in Shimabara, Nagasaki. Damage to roads and bridges complicated evacuation efforts.
Nearly 50,000 households lost electricity, and more than 300,000 residents were instructed to evacuate to temporary shelters. Train and airport operations were suspended while safety inspections were conducted.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said cabinet officials had been sent to assess the damage. The Japan Meteorological Agency urged residents to remain prepared for aftershocks. U.S. Forces Japan said initial reports showed no damage to American facilities and that its leaders were coordinating with Japan’s Self-Defense Forces.
Officials did not immediately provide a comprehensive estimate of casualties or property losses, and emergency agencies continued gathering information as rescue crews searched damaged buildings and communities near the epicenter throughout the day.