
13 hours · 2 summary articles
Powerful earthquake kills 13 in Japans Kumamoto, triggers mall explosion and factory collapse
Powerful earthquake in southern Japan kills one, injures over 50 and traps shoppers in collapsed mall
A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan's southern Kumamoto prefecture on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, causing widespread damage and triggering an explosion at a shopping center. As of Wednesday, July 29, 2026, the death toll has risen to 13, with rescue operations ongoing.
The earthquake caused significant damage to buildings, roads, and infrastructure, including the collapse of a shopping center and a paper factory. The explosion at the Aeon Mall Kumamoto is believed to have been caused by a gas leak. The blast resulted in the collapse of parts of the shopping center, trapping people inside. Two women were confirmed dead following the explosion, and five others were rescued with injuries.
The earthquake also caused the collapse of a chimney at a paper factory in Yatsushiro, resulting in two deaths. The famous Kumamoto Castle also suffered damage to its stone wall.
The earthquake caused a tsunami advisory for coastal areas along the Ariake Sea and Yatsushiro Sea, which was later lifted. The region experienced power outages and water shortages, with nearly 50,000 households left without electricity. The earthquake also caused damage to roads and bridges, and disrupted transportation and communication networks.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed the death toll and stated that the government has set up a crisis management team to assess the damage and coordinate rescue efforts. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of possible strong aftershocks in the coming days.
The Japanese government has deployed military personnel and resources to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts. Emergency shelters have been set up for those displaced by the disaster. The government has also pledged to provide financial assistance to those affected by the disaster and to support the recovery and reconstruction efforts.
The earthquake has caused significant economic losses, with several factories and businesses forced to suspend operations.
The Kumamoto prefecture was also hit by a powerful earthquake a decade ago, which caused dozens of deaths and forced tens of thousands to evacuate to temporary shelters.
Rescue operations are continuing as emergency crews race to find survivors trapped under the rubble.
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