- 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan, triggering a tsunami warning and prompting authorities to issue evacuation advisories in affected coastal areas.
- The powerful quake caused strong tremors, with damage reported in parts of the country as emergency teams assessed the situation.
- Injuries were reported, with one hospital noting more than 50 injuries after the earthquake, and several more people were hurt when the tremors derailed a high-speed train.
- The earthquake knocked out power to about 40,000 homes, and authorities set up evacuation centers for around 300,000 people.
- The worst incident appeared to be an explosion at an Aeon Mall in Kumamoto, where police say several people are presumed to have been killed and others remain trapped.
- The earthquake's epicentre was located in the city of Uki, just south of the city of Kumamoto, at a depth of 10km (6.2 miles).
- A tsunami warning was initially issued but later lifted, and Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority reported no abnormalities at three nearby nuclear power plants.
A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan's southern Kumamoto prefecture on Tuesday afternoon, causing widespread damage and prompting a tsunami warning. The quake's epicenter was located in the city of Uki, at a depth of 10km (6.2 miles).178
The powerful tremors resulted in an explosion at an Aeon Mall, where police reported several fatalities and others trapped. Emergency teams are currently assessing the situation, with reports of over 50 injuries at a local hospital and additional injuries from a derailed high-speed train.36
In response to the disaster, authorities issued evacuation advisories for around 300,000 people and deployed 3,600 soldiers to assist with recovery efforts. Kyushu Electric Power reported that approximately 40,000 homes lost electricity, while railway services, including high-speed bullet trains, were suspended.45
Although a tsunami warning was initially issued, it has since been lifted, and Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed no abnormalities at nearby nuclear power plants. As aftershocks continue, officials remain vigilant about the potential for further damage.
“The earthquake, centered in Kumamoto prefecture, caused significant damage, including an explosion at an Aeon Mall, with several people presumed trapped. Authorities have deployed 3,600 soldiers for disaster recovery, while around 300,000 residents have been instructed to evacuate to safety.”
