- Emergency workers are continuing their search for survivors in southern Japan after yesterday’s powerful earthquake left widespread devastation, with buildings collapsed, roads severely damaged and emergency teams digging through rubble.
- Nearly 37,000 homes were still without electricity, 9,500 homes were without gas and communication networks were not working in some areas, chief government spokesperson Minoru Kihara told reporters.
Rescue efforts continue in Japan's Kumamoto prefecture after a devastating 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck the region, resulting in at least 13 fatalities and widespread destruction. Emergency workers are tirelessly searching for survivors amidst the rubble, with reports of buildings collapsed and roads severely damaged.1
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake has left many residents in dire conditions, with nearly 37,000 homes without electricity and 9,500 homes lacking gas. Communication networks are also down in several areas, complicating rescue efforts. Chief government spokesperson Minoru Kihara confirmed these figures during a press briefing.2
In a notable incident, eight individuals were rescued from the debris of a partially collapsed Aeon shopping center near Kumamoto city, following an explosion that occurred shortly after the earthquake. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that rescue workers are in a “race against time” to save those still trapped.
As the search for survivors continues, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, with emergency teams working around the clock to provide aid and restore essential services to affected communities.
“Nearly 37,000 homes remain without electricity and 9,500 without gas, as communication networks are down in some areas, according to chief government spokesperson Minoru Kihara. Emergency workers are racing against time to search for survivors amid the rubble of collapsed buildings and damaged roads.”
The Guardian
