Earthquake Strikes Kumamoto, Japan
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck Kumamoto on Japan’s Kyushu island late Tuesday afternoon, resulting in damage and injuries. The U.S. Geological Survey later revised this to a magnitude of 6.8.
The Aeon Mall shopping center in Kashima Town experienced a partial collapse of its second floor, trapping an unknown number of people. Rescue operations have commenced, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, although additional details have not been disclosed. Kyodo News Agency reported an explosion occurred prior to the collapse.
A tsunami advisory was issued for the Ariake and Yatsushiro Seas along Kumamoto’s western coast and three neighboring prefectures. This advisory was lifted within two hours by the Japan Meteorological Agency. The affected area lies approximately 900 kilometers southwest of Tokyo.
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that a task force is assessing the damage and preparing for any necessary rescue operations. Initial reports include injuries, damage to infrastructure, blackouts, and fires. Takaichi has advised residents to be cautious with fires and broken glass.
Kyodo News Agency reported that a Yatsushiro city hospital treated about 40 injured individuals. A train derailed at Yatsushiro station, and stone walls at Kumamoto castle were damaged. A local Shinto shrine experienced fallen stone lanterns. The earthquake’s impact stirred memories of a deadly quake in 2016, according to some local residents.
No significant damage to key public facilities and infrastructure has been confirmed, but assessments continue. Emergency calls regarding fires and home damages are being addressed with utmost priority, said Takaichi.
The Japan Meteorological Agency’s Shinji Kiyomoto advised vigilance for potential aftershocks, despite no tsunami following the inland quake. The Nuclear Regulation Authority reported normal conditions at nearby nuclear power plants.
Shinkansen bullet trains and local trains in Kyushu have been halted for safety inspections. The Aso Kumamoto Airport’s runway was closed and remains non-operational according to its website. The Defense Ministry deployed aircraft to evaluate the situation.