Strong Earthquake Shakes Kumamoto

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A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck Kumamoto on Japan’s southern main island of Kyushu late Tuesday afternoon. The quake caused significant damage and several injuries, according to officials.

Incidents and Damage

The second floor of the Aeon Mall in Kashima Town collapsed, trapping an unknown number of individuals inside. Rescue operations were ongoing, as reported by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. An explosion was noted prior to the collapse, according to the Kyodo News Agency.

A tsunami advisory was momentarily in effect for the Ariake and Yatsushiro Seas near Kumamoto and three adjacent prefectures. The advisory lifted within two hours, the Japan Meteorological Agency stated.

Revised Magnitude

The U.S. Geological Survey initially marked the earthquake at a magnitude of 7.1, later revising this to 6.8. The region affected is located approximately 900 kilometers southwest of Tokyo.

Government and Local Response

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi informed through a message on X about the establishment of a task force to gather information and assess damage. Reports indicated injuries, along with damage to roads, bridges, and buildings.

Blackouts and fires have also been reported. Takaichi advised people to be cautious with fire and broken glass. About 40 injured individuals were received by a hospital in Yatsushiro city.

Transportation Disruptions

At Yatsushiro station, a train derailed, and stone walls sustained damage at the Kumamoto castle. In nearby Mashiki, Yozo Kai, a Shinto shrine priest, observed that stone lanterns had toppled. Hiroki Shimoda from Mifune town hall shared that roof tiles had fallen during the tremors.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency confirmed no major damage to public infrastructure, although local emergency services received numerous calls reporting fires and home damage.

Further Precautions

Prime Minister Takaichi emphasized prioritizing residents’ safety, warning of potential aftershocks. Shinji Kiyomoto from JMA’s Earthquake and Tsunami Countermeasures urged the community to remain vigilant for the next several days.

No tsunami was observed from this seismic event. The Nuclear Regulation Authority noted no issues at nearby nuclear power plants.

Shinkansen bullet trains and local trains in Kyushu paused for safety inspections. Aso Kumamoto Airport’s runway closure was announced, with no immediate reopening plans. The Defense Ministry dispatched aircraft to assess the area.